The imagery of Nahum 3:5–6 might suggest to some readers that violence against women is condoned by Scripture.
We must take note, however, that even though the metaphor of an evil woman being exposed is used to describe the Lord’s judgment, the metaphor applies to all the people of Nineveh, not just the women. The sorceress-prostitute metaphor in particular is a reference to a nation’s use of seduction and power for horrific purposes.1 To apply this text against women in particular is itself a misuse of the text of the kind that the text itself is condemning.
The text also makes it clear that it is the Lord himself who is bringing this violence against everyone. It can therefore not be used to justify human violence against other humans. Vengeance is mine,
says the Lord. The Babylonians, whom the Lord is using, are not holy warriors fighting the Lord’s cause. They will, in fact, ultimately face his judgment as well for their own wickedness.2
5 Behold, I am against you, declares the LORD of hosts, and will lift up your skirts over your face; and I will make nations look at your nakedness and kingdoms at your shame.