Nahum 2

This and the following chapter contain,a description of the taking of Nineveh by the Babylonians and Medes. (See the note upon i.l.) Vcr. 1. JljLe that dasheth in pieces is come up before thy face.] An enemy that will break down thy walls and destroy thine inhabitants, O Nineveh, is come to besiege thee. The words may be literally translated, The hammer is come up against thee; in the same sense as the Chaldeans are called the hammer of the whole earth, Jer. 1. 23. The original word indeed is not the same in both places, but they arc synonymous. Keep the munition, watch the way.] There is need of thy utmost industry to defend thyself in strengthening the garrisons, and guarding the passes. (Compare iii. 13, 14.) Make thy loins strong, &c] Stir up all thy strength and courage. Vcr. 2. For the Lord hath turned away the excellency of Jacob as the excellency of Israel.] Some translate the words thus,‘Die Lord hath returned [or, will revenge] the pride,