Nahum 1:11

There is one come out of thee, that imagineth evil against the Lord, a wicked counsellor.

Nahum 1:11 (KJV)

Context

The book of Nahum, one of the Minor Prophets, announces God’s judgment on Nineveh, the Assyrian capital, and brings comfort to Judah under Assyrian oppression. Nahum delivered this prophecy in the 7th century BC (approximately 663-612 BC). The Assyrians were known for cruelty, violence, and idolatry.

Meaning

The verse identifies an individual from Nineveh who “imagineth evil against the Lord” and is a “wicked counsellor.” The Hebrew word for “imagineth” means devising or plotting. This person, likely Sennacherib or possibly Rabshakeh, devised evil schemes against God’s people, planning to invade Judah and seize Jerusalem. The Targum explains “out of thee” as out of Nineveh, and the evil was against the Lord’s people.

Biblical connections

This individual is most commonly identified as Sennacherib, king of Assyria, or Rabshakeh, his official who blasphemed against Hezekiah. The broader context of Nahum 1 shows God’s majesty in goodness to his people and severity against enemies.

Application

God, as protector of his Church, defends his distressed people. Human plans against God are futile; he brings them to nothing. The “wicked counsellor” embodies pride and arrogance against divine will. God sees the schemes of the wicked and will act in judgment, bringing comfort to those who trust him.

Reflection

God’s awareness of every evil scheme brings comfort. Even when wicked counselors seem powerful, their plans cannot succeed against the Lord. Trust in God’s sovereign protection and justice.