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She said to herself, &#8220I am the one! And there is none besides me.&#8221 What a ruin she has become, a lair for wild beasts! All who pass by her scoff and shake their fists. <a href="/nlt/zephaniah/2.htm">New Living Translation</a> This is the boisterous city, once so secure. “I am the greatest!” it boasted. “No other city can compare with me!” But now, look how it has become an utter ruin, a haven for wild animals. Everyone passing by will laugh in derision and shake a defiant fist. <a href="/esv/zephaniah/2.htm">English Standard Version</a> This is the exultant city that lived securely, that said in her heart, “I am, and there is no one else.” What a desolation she has become, a lair for wild beasts! Everyone who passes by her hisses and shakes his fist. <a href="/bsb/zephaniah/2.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> This carefree city that dwells securely, that thinks to herself: “I am it, and there is none besides me,” what a ruin she has become, a resting place for beasts. Everyone who passes by her hisses and shakes his fist. <a href="/kjv/zephaniah/2.htm">King James Bible</a> This is the rejoicing city that dwelt carelessly, that said in her heart, I am, and there is none beside me: how is she become a desolation, a place for beasts to lie down in! every one that passeth by her shall hiss, and wag his hand. <a href="/nkjv/zephaniah/2.htm">New King James Version</a> This is the rejoicing city That dwelt securely, That said in her heart, “I am it, and there is none besides me.” How has she become a desolation, A place for beasts to lie down! Everyone who passes by her Shall hiss and shake his fist. <a href="/nasb_/zephaniah/2.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> This is the presumptuous city That dwells securely, Who says in her heart, “I am, and there is no one besides me.” How she has become a desolation, A resting place for animals! Everyone who passes by her will hiss And wave his hand in contempt. <a href="/nasb/zephaniah/2.htm">NASB 1995</a> This is the exultant city Which dwells securely, Who says in her heart, &#8220I am, and there is no one besides me.&#8221 How she has become a desolation, A resting place for beasts! Everyone who passes by her will hiss And wave his hand in contempt. <a href="/nasb77/zephaniah/2.htm">NASB 1977 </a> This is the exultant city Which dwells securely, Who says in her heart, “I am, and there is no one besides me.” How she has become a desolation, A resting place for beasts! Everyone who passes by her will hiss And wave his hand in contempt. <a href="/lsb/zephaniah/2.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> This is the exultant city Which inhabits securely, Who says in her heart, “I am, and there is no one besides me.” How she has become an object of horror, A resting place for beasts! Everyone who passes by her will hiss And wave his hand in contempt. <a href="/amp/zephaniah/2.htm">Amplified Bible</a> This is the joyous city Which dwells carelessly [feeling so secure], Who says in her heart, “I am, and there is no one besides me.” What a desolation she has become, A lair for [wild] animals! Everyone who passes by her will hiss [in scorn] And wave his hand in contempt. <a href="/csb/zephaniah/2.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> This is the jubilant city that lives in security, that says to herself: I exist, and there is no one else. What a desolation she has become, a place for wild animals to lie down! Everyone who passes by her scoffs and shakes his fist. <a href="/hcsb/zephaniah/2.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> This is the self-assured city that lives in security, that thinks to herself: I exist, and there is no one else. What a desolation she has become, a place for wild animals to lie down! Everyone who passes by her jeers and shakes his fist. <a href="/asv/zephaniah/2.htm">American Standard Version</a> This is the joyous city that dwelt carelessly, that said in her heart, I am, and there is none besides me: how is she become a desolation, a place for beasts to lie down in! every one that passeth by her shall hiss, and wag his hand. <a href="/cev/zephaniah/2.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> This is the glorious city that felt secure and said, "I am the only one!" Now it's merely ruins, a home for wild animals. Every passerby simply sneers and makes vulgar signs. <a href="/erv/zephaniah/2.htm">English Revised Version</a> This is the joyous city that dwelt carelessly, that said in her heart, I am, and there is none else beside me: how is she become a desolation, a place for beasts to lie down in! every one that passeth by her shall hiss, and wag his hand. <a href="/gwt/zephaniah/2.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> Is this the arrogant city? Is this the city that used to live securely, the city that used to think to itself, "I'm the only one, and no one else exists but me"? What a wasteland it is now, a resting place for wild animals! All who pass by it will hiss and make an obscene gesture. <a href="/gnt/zephaniah/2.htm">Good News Translation</a> That is what will happen to the city that is so proud of its own power and thinks it is safe. Its people think that their city is the greatest in the world. What a desolate place it will become, a place where wild animals will rest! Everyone who passes by will shrink back in horror. <a href="/isv/zephaniah/2.htm">International Standard Version</a> This is that carefree city that lived irresponsibly, that told herself, 'Me first!' and, 'There will be no one else!' How ruined she has become— a habitat for wild animals! Everyone who passes by her will sneer at her and make obscene gestures!" <a href="/msb/zephaniah/2.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> This carefree city that dwells securely, that thinks to herself: ?I am it, and there is none besides me,? what a ruin she has become, a resting place for beasts. Everyone who passes by her hisses and shakes his fist. <a href="/net/zephaniah/2.htm">NET Bible</a> This is how the once-proud city will end up--the city that was so secure. She thought to herself, "I am unique! No one can compare to me!" What a heap of ruins she has become, a place where wild animals live! Everyone who passes by her taunts her and shakes his fist. <a href="/nheb/zephaniah/2.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> This is the joyous city that lived carelessly, that said in her heart, "I am, and there is none besides me." How she has become a desolation, a place for animals to lie down in. Everyone who passes by her will hiss, and shake their fists. <a href="/wbt/zephaniah/2.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> This is the rejoicing city that dwelt in security, that said in her heart, I am, and there is none besides me: how is she become a desolation, a place for beasts to lie down in! every one that passeth by her shall hiss, and wag his hand. <a href="/web/zephaniah/2.htm">World English Bible</a> This is the joyous city that lived carelessly, that said in her heart, “I am, and there is no one besides me.” How she has become a desolation, a place for animals to lie down in! Everyone who passes by her will hiss and shake their fists. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/zephaniah/2.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> This [is] the exulting city that is dwelling confidently, "" That is saying in her heart, "" “I [am], and there is none beside me,” "" How she has been for a desolation, "" A crouching-place for beasts, "" Everyone passing by her hisses, "" He shakes his hand! <a href="/ylt/zephaniah/2.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> This is the exulting city that is dwelling confidently, That is saying in her heart, 'I am, and beside me there is none,' How hath she been for a desolation, A crouching-place for beasts, Every one passing by her doth hiss, He doth shake his hand! <a href="/slt/zephaniah/2.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> This the exulting city dwelling confidently, saying in her heart, I, and none besides me. How was she for a desolation, a piece of lying down for the beast! all passing by her shall hiss and wave his hand.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/zephaniah/2.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> This is the glorious city that dwelt in security: that said in her heart: I am, and there is none beside me: how is she become a desert, a place for beasts to lie down in? every one that passeth by her, shall hiss, and wag his hand. <a href="/cpdv/zephaniah/2.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> This is the glorious city, dwelling in trust, which said in her heart, “I am and there is no one other than me.” How has she become a lair for beasts in the desert? All who pass through her will hiss and wag their hand. <a href="/nabre/zephaniah/2.htm">New American Bible</a> Is this the exultant city that dwelt secure, That told itself, “I and there is no one else”? How it has become a waste, a lair for wild animals! Those who pass by it hiss, and shake their fists! <a href="/nrsvce/zephaniah/2.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> Is this the exultant city that lived secure, that said to itself, “I am, and there is no one else”? What a desolation it has become, a lair for wild animals! Everyone who passes by it hisses and shakes the fist.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/zephaniah/2.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> This is the mighty city that dwelt in security, that said in her heart, I am, and there is none like me; how is she become a desolation, a place for beasts to lie down in! Everyone that passes by her shall be amazed and hiss, and shake his hand, saying, <a href="/hpbt/zephaniah/2.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a> This is the fortified city that had dwelt in quietness and was saying in her heart: ”I am God, and there is none other like me!” How she has come to destruction and a place of herding for beasts! Everyone whoever will pass by it shall be shocked and shall whistle and shall shake his hand and shall say: <div class="vheading2">OT Translations</div><a href="/jps/zephaniah/2.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a> This is the joyous city That dwelt without care, That said in her heart: 'I am, and there is none else beside me'; How is she become a desolation, A place for beasts to lie down in! Every one that passeth by her Shall hiss, and wag his hand. <a href="/sep/zephaniah/2.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a> This is the scornful city that dwells securely, that says in her heart, I am, and there is no longer any to be after me: how is she become desolate, a habitation of wild beasts! every one that passes through her shall hiss, and shake his hands. <a href="/parallel/zephaniah/2-15.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/T0cd_1JKnyY?start=397" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/zephaniah/2.htm">The Judgment on Cush and Assyria</a> …14Herds will lie down in her midst, creatures of every kind. Both the desert owl and screech owl will roost atop her pillars. Their calls will sound from the window, but desolation will lie on the threshold, for He will expose the beams of cedar. 15<a href="/hebrew/2063.htm" title="2063: zōṯ (Pro-fs) -- Hereby in it, likewise, the one other, same, she, so much, such deed, that. Irregular feminine of zeh; this.">This</a> <a href="/hebrew/5947.htm" title="5947: hā·‘al·lî·zāh (Art:: Adj-fs) -- Exultant, jubilant. From alaz; exultant.">carefree</a> <a href="/hebrew/5892.htm" title="5892: hā·‘îr (Art:: N-fs) -- Excitement. Or par; or ayar; from uwr a city in the widest sense.">city</a> <a href="/hebrew/3427.htm" title="3427: hay·yō·wō·še·ḇeṯ (Art:: V-Qal-Prtcpl-fs) -- A primitive root; properly, to sit down; by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle, to marry.">that dwells</a> <a href="/hebrew/983.htm" title="983: lā·ḇe·ṭaḥ (Prep-l:: N-ms) -- Security. From batach; properly, a place of refuge; abstract, safety, both the fact and the feeling; often safely.">securely,</a> <a href="/hebrew/559.htm" title="559: hā·’ō·mə·rāh (Art:: V-Qal-Prtcpl-fs) -- To utter, say. A primitive root; to say.">that thinks</a> <a href="/hebrew/3824.htm" title="3824: bil·ḇā·ḇāh (Prep-b:: N-msc:: 3fs) -- Inner man, mind, will, heart. From labab; the heart; used also like leb.">to herself:</a> <a href="/hebrew/589.htm" title="589: ’ă·nî (Pro-1cs) -- I. Contracted from 'anokiy; I.">“I am it,</a> <a href="/hebrew/657.htm" title="657: wə·’ap̄·sî (Conj-w:: N-msc) -- From 'aphec; cessation, i.e. An end; often used adverb, no further; also the ankle, as being the extremity of the leg or foot.">and there is none</a> <a href="/hebrew/5750.htm" title="5750: ‘ō·wḏ (Adv) -- Or rod; from uwd; properly, iteration or continuance; used only adverbially, again, repeatedly, still, more.">besides me,”</a> <a href="/hebrew/349.htm" title="349: ’êḵ (Interjection) -- How?. Also eykah; and teykakah; prolonged from 'ay; how? Or how!; also where.">what</a> <a href="/hebrew/8047.htm" title="8047: lə·šam·māh (Prep-l:: N-fs) -- Waste, horror. From shamem; ruin; by implication, consternation.">a ruin</a> <a href="/hebrew/1961.htm" title="1961: hā·yə·ṯāh (V-Qal-Perf-3fs) -- To fall out, come to pass, become, be. A primitive root; to exist, i.e. Be or become, come to pass.">she has become,</a> <a href="/hebrew/4769.htm" title="4769: mar·bêṣ (N-ms) -- (place of) lying down. From rabats; a reclining place, i.e. Fold.">a resting place</a> <a href="/hebrew/2416.htm" title="2416: la·ḥay·yāh (Prep-l, Art:: N-fs) -- Alive, raw, fresh, strong, life. From chayah; alive; hence, raw; fresh, strong; also life, whether literally or figuratively.">for beasts.</a> <a href="/hebrew/3605.htm" title="3605: kōl (N-ms) -- The whole, all. Or kowl; from kalal; properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every.">Everyone</a> <a href="/hebrew/5674.htm" title="5674: ‘ō·w·ḇêr (V-Qal-Prtcpl-ms) -- To pass over, through, or by, pass on. A primitive root; to cross over; used very widely of any transition; specifically, to cover.">who passes</a> <a href="/hebrew/5921.htm" title="5921: ‘ā·le·hā (Prep:: 3fs) -- Properly, the same as al used as a preposition; above, over, upon, or against in a great variety of applications.">by her</a> <a href="/hebrew/8319.htm" title="8319: yiš·rōq (V-Qal-Imperf-3ms) -- To hiss, whistle, pipe. A primitive root; properly, to be shrill, i.e. To whistle or hiss.">hisses</a> <a href="/hebrew/5128.htm" title="5128: yā·nî·a‘ (V-Hifil-Imperf-3ms) -- A primitive root; to waver, in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively.">and shakes</a> <a href="/hebrew/3027.htm" title="3027: yā·ḏōw (N-fsc:: 3ms) -- Hand (indicating power, means, direction, etc.)">his fist.</a> <div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/isaiah/47-8.htm">Isaiah 47:8-11</a> So now hear this, O lover of luxury who sits securely, who says to herself, ‘I am, and there is none besides me. I will never be a widow or know the loss of children.’ / These two things will overtake you in a moment, in a single day: loss of children, and widowhood. They will come upon you in full measure, in spite of your many sorceries and the potency of your spells. / You were secure in your wickedness; you said, ‘No one sees me.’ Your wisdom and knowledge led you astray; you told yourself, ‘I am, and there is none besides me.’ ... <a href="/revelation/18-7.htm">Revelation 18:7-8</a> As much as she has glorified herself and lived in luxury, give her the same measure of torment and grief. In her heart she says, ‘I sit as queen; I am not a widow and will never see grief.’ / Therefore her plagues will come in one day—death and grief and famine—and she will be consumed by fire, for mighty is the Lord God who judges her.” <a href="/isaiah/13-19.htm">Isaiah 13:19-22</a> And Babylon, the jewel of the kingdoms, the glory of the pride of the Chaldeans, will be overthrown by God like Sodom and Gomorrah. / She will never be inhabited or settled from generation to generation; no nomad will pitch his tent there, no shepherd will rest his flock there. / But desert creatures will lie down there, and howling creatures will fill her houses. Ostriches will dwell there, and wild goats will leap about. ... <a href="/jeremiah/50-39.htm">Jeremiah 50:39-40</a> So the desert creatures and hyenas will live there and ostriches will dwell there. It will never again be inhabited or lived in from generation to generation. / As God overthrew Sodom and Gomorrah along with their neighbors,” declares the LORD, “no one will dwell there; no man will abide there. <a href="/revelation/18-2.htm">Revelation 18:2</a> And he cried out in a mighty voice: “Fallen, fallen is Babylon the great! She has become a lair for demons and a haunt for every unclean spirit, every unclean bird, and every detestable beast. <a href="/isaiah/14-12.htm">Isaiah 14:12-15</a> How you have fallen from heaven, O day star, son of the dawn! You have been cut down to the ground, O destroyer of nations. / You said in your heart: “I will ascend to the heavens; I will raise my throne above the stars of God. I will sit on the mount of assembly, in the far reaches of the north. / I will ascend above the tops of the clouds; I will make myself like the Most High.” ... <a href="/ezekiel/28-2.htm">Ezekiel 28:2-10</a> “Son of man, tell the ruler of Tyre that this is what the Lord GOD says: Your heart is proud, and you have said, ‘I am a god; I sit in the seat of gods in the heart of the sea.’ Yet you are a man and not a god, though you have regarded your heart as that of a god. / Behold, you are wiser than Daniel; no secret is hidden from you! / By your wisdom and understanding you have gained your wealth and amassed gold and silver for your treasuries. ... <a href="/revelation/17-5.htm">Revelation 17:5</a> And on her forehead a mysterious name was written: BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF PROSTITUTES AND OF THE ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH. <a href="/jeremiah/51-37.htm">Jeremiah 51:37</a> Babylon will become a heap of rubble, a haunt for jackals, an object of horror and scorn, without inhabitant. <a href="/isaiah/34-11.htm">Isaiah 34:11-15</a> The desert owl and screech owl will possess it, and the great owl and raven will dwell in it. The LORD will stretch out over Edom a measuring line of chaos and a plumb line of destruction. / No nobles will be left to proclaim a king, and all her princes will come to nothing. / Her towers will be overgrown with thorns, her fortresses with thistles and briers. She will become a haunt for jackals, an abode for ostriches. ... <a href="/revelation/18-21.htm">Revelation 18:21-24</a> Then a mighty angel picked up a stone the size of a great millstone and cast it into the sea, saying: “With such violence the great city of Babylon will be cast down, never to be seen again. / And the sound of harpists and musicians, of flute players and trumpeters, will never ring out in you again. Nor will any craftsmen of any trade be found in you again, nor the sound of a millstone be heard in you again. / The light of a lamp will never shine in you again, and the voices of a bride and bridegroom will never call out in you again. For your merchants were the great ones of the earth, because all the nations were deceived by your sorcery.” ... <a href="/isaiah/23-9.htm">Isaiah 23:9</a> The LORD of Hosts planned it, to defile all its glorious beauty, to disgrace all the renowned of the earth. <a href="/jeremiah/49-16.htm">Jeremiah 49:16-18</a> The terror you cause and the pride of your heart have deceived you, O dwellers in the clefts of the rocks, O occupiers of the mountain summit. Though you elevate your nest like the eagle, even from there I will bring you down,” declares the LORD. / “Edom will become an object of horror. All who pass by will be appalled and will scoff at all her wounds. / As Sodom and Gomorrah were overthrown along with their neighbors,” says the LORD, “no one will dwell there; no man will abide there. <a href="/obadiah/1-3.htm">Obadiah 1:3-4</a> The pride of your heart has deceived you, O dwellers in the clefts of the rocks whose habitation is the heights, who say in your heart, ‘Who can bring me down to the ground?’ / Though you soar like the eagle and make your nest among the stars, even from there I will bring you down,” declares the LORD. <a href="/revelation/16-19.htm">Revelation 16:19</a> The great city was split into three parts, and the cities of the nations collapsed. And God remembered Babylon the great and gave her the cup of the wine of the fury of His wrath.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>This is the rejoicing city that dwelled carelessly, that said in her heart, I am, and there is none beside me: how is she become a desolation, a place for beasts to lie down in! every one that passes by her shall hiss, and wag his hand.the rejoicing.<a href="/isaiah/10-12.htm">Isaiah 10:12-14</a> Wherefore it shall come to pass, that when the Lord hath performed his whole work upon mount Zion and on Jerusalem, I will punish the fruit of the stout heart of the king of Assyria, and the glory of his high looks… <a href="/isaiah/22-2.htm">Isaiah 22:2</a> Thou that art full of stirs, a tumultuous city, a joyous city: thy slain men are not slain with the sword, nor dead in battle.<a href="/isaiah/47-7.htm">Isaiah 47:7</a> And thou saidst, I shall be a lady for ever: so that thou didst not lay these things to thy heart, neither didst remember the latter end of it.I am.<a href="/isaiah/47-8.htm">Isaiah 47:8</a> Therefore hear now this, thou that art given to pleasures, that dwellest carelessly, that sayest in thine heart, I am, and none else beside me; I shall not sit as a widow, neither shall I know the loss of children:<a href="/ezekiel/28-2.htm">Ezekiel 28:2,9</a> Son of man, say unto the prince of Tyrus, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Because thine heart is lifted up, and thou hast said, I am a God, I sit in the seat of God, in the midst of the seas; yet thou art a man, and not God, though thou set thine heart as the heart of God: … <a href="/ezekiel/29-3.htm">Ezekiel 29:3</a> Speak, and say, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I am against thee, Pharaoh king of Egypt, the great dragon that lieth in the midst of his rivers, which hath said, My river is mine own, and I have made it for myself.how is.<a href="/isaiah/14-4.htm">Isaiah 14:4,5</a> That thou shalt take up this proverb against the king of Babylon, and say, How hath the oppressor ceased! the golden city ceased! … <a href="/lamentations/1-1.htm">Lamentations 1:1</a> How doth the city sit solitary, that was full of people! how is she become as a widow! she that was great among the nations, and princess among the provinces, how is she become tributary!<a href="/lamentations/2-1.htm">Lamentations 2:1</a> How hath the Lord covered the daughter of Zion with a cloud in his anger, and cast down from heaven unto the earth the beauty of Israel, and remembered not his footstool in the day of his anger!every.<a href="/1_kings/9-7.htm">1 Kings 9:7,8</a> Then will I cut off Israel out of the land which I have given them; and this house, which I have hallowed for my name, will I cast out of my sight; and Israel shall be a proverb and a byword among all people: … <a href="/job/27-23.htm">Job 27:23</a> Men shall clap their hands at him, and shall hiss him out of his place.<a href="/psalms/52-6.htm">Psalm 52:6,7</a> The righteous also shall see, and fear, and shall laugh at him: … <div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/zephaniah/2-14.htm">Animals</a> <a href="/zephaniah/2-14.htm">Beasts</a> <a href="/hosea/13-4.htm">Besides</a> <a href="/zephaniah/2-7.htm">Care</a> <a href="/ezekiel/39-6.htm">Carelessly</a> <a href="/habakkuk/2-17.htm">City</a> <a href="/zephaniah/2-14.htm">Desolation</a> <a href="/micah/7-14.htm">Dwells</a> <a href="/daniel/4-21.htm">Dwelt</a> <a href="/isaiah/23-7.htm">Exultant</a> <a href="/isaiah/58-4.htm">Fists</a> <a href="/zephaniah/2-13.htm">Hand</a> <a href="/zephaniah/2-3.htm">Heart</a> <a href="/ezekiel/27-36.htm">Hiss</a> <a href="/ezekiel/7-7.htm">Joyous</a> <a href="/zephaniah/2-14.htm">Lie</a> <a href="/zephaniah/2-2.htm">Passes</a> <a href="/zephaniah/2-2.htm">Passeth</a> <a href="/habakkuk/3-14.htm">Rejoicing</a> <a href="/micah/7-5.htm">Resting</a> <a href="/micah/5-4.htm">Securely</a> <a href="/habakkuk/2-7.htm">Shake</a> <a href="/lamentations/2-15.htm">Wag</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/zechariah/14-15.htm">Animals</a> <a href="/zechariah/14-15.htm">Beasts</a> <a href="/matthew/14-21.htm">Besides</a> <a href="/zechariah/10-9.htm">Care</a> <a href="/leviticus/5-4.htm">Carelessly</a> <a href="/zephaniah/3-1.htm">City</a> <a href="/malachi/1-3.htm">Desolation</a> <a href="/matthew/23-21.htm">Dwells</a> <a href="/zechariah/2-10.htm">Dwelt</a> <a href="/zephaniah/3-11.htm">Exultant</a> <a href="/matthew/26-67.htm">Fists</a> <a href="/haggai/1-3.htm">Hand</a> <a href="/zephaniah/3-14.htm">Heart</a> <a href="/zechariah/10-8.htm">Hiss</a> <a href="/hebrews/12-11.htm">Joyous</a> <a href="/zechariah/10-2.htm">Lie</a> <a href="/zephaniah/3-6.htm">Passes</a> <a href="/zephaniah/3-6.htm">Passeth</a> <a href="/luke/1-14.htm">Rejoicing</a> <a href="/zechariah/9-1.htm">Resting</a> <a href="/matthew/27-64.htm">Securely</a> <a href="/haggai/2-6.htm">Shake</a> <a href="/psalms/22-7.htm">Wag</a><div class="vheading2">Zephaniah 2</div>1. <a href="/zephaniah/2-1.htm">An exhortation to repentance.</a> 4. <a href="/zephaniah/2-4.htm">The judgment of the Philistines,</a> 8. <a href="/zephaniah/2-8.htm">of Moab and Ammon,</a> 12. <a href="/zephaniah/2-12.htm">of Ethiopia,</a> 13. <a href="/zephaniah/2-13.htm">and of Assyria.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/zephaniah/2.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/zephaniah/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/zephaniah/2.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>This carefree city that dwells securely The city referred to here is Nineveh, the capital of the Assyrian Empire. Historically, Nineveh was known for its wealth, power, and seemingly impregnable defenses. The phrase "dwells securely" reflects the city's confidence in its military strength and strategic location. Archaeological findings reveal massive walls and fortifications that contributed to this sense of security. However, this security was false, as it relied on human strength rather than divine protection.that thinks to herself: “I am it, and there is none besides me,” This phrase highlights the pride and arrogance of Nineveh. The city's self-perception echoes the pride of Babylon in <a href="/isaiah/47-8.htm">Isaiah 47:8</a> and the arrogance of Tyre in <a href="/ezekiel/28-2.htm">Ezekiel 28:2</a>. Such self-exaltation is a common theme in Scripture, where human pride leads to downfall. This attitude is a direct challenge to God's sovereignty, as only God can rightfully claim to be without equal (<a href="/isaiah/45-5.htm">Isaiah 45:5</a>).what a ruin she has become, a resting place for beasts. The prophecy of Nineveh's destruction was fulfilled when the city fell to the Babylonians and Medes in 612 BC. The once-great city became desolate, and its ruins were inhabited by wild animals, as described in <a href="/zephaniah/2-14.htm">Zephaniah 2:14</a>. This transformation from a bustling metropolis to a deserted wasteland serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of pride and rebellion against God.Everyone who passes by her hisses and shakes his fist. The imagery of hissing and shaking fists signifies scorn and derision. In the ancient Near East, such gestures were expressions of contempt and mockery. This reaction from passersby underscores the complete reversal of Nineveh's fortunes—from a feared empire to an object of ridicule. This fulfills the biblical principle that God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble (<a href="/james/4-6.htm">James 4:6</a>).<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/t/the_carefree_city.htm">The Carefree City</a> This refers to Nineveh, the capital of the Assyrian Empire, known for its arrogance and sense of invincibility. 2. <a href="/topical/z/zephaniah.htm">Zephaniah</a> A prophet in the Old Testament who delivered God's message of judgment and hope to Judah and surrounding nations. 3. <a href="/topical/a/assyrian_empire.htm">Assyrian Empire</a> A dominant power in the ancient Near East, known for its military might and oppressive rule over conquered peoples. 4. <a href="/topical/j/judgment.htm">Judgment</a> The event of divine retribution that Zephaniah prophesies against Nineveh for its pride and wickedness. 5. <a href="/topical/p/passersby.htm">Passersby</a> Those who witness the downfall of Nineveh, expressing scorn and derision.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/t/the_danger_of_pride.htm">The Danger of Pride</a> Pride leads to a false sense of security and self-sufficiency, which ultimately results in downfall. We must guard our hearts against arrogance and remember our dependence on God. <a href="/topical/g/god's_sovereignty_in_judgment.htm">God's Sovereignty in Judgment</a> God is sovereign over all nations and will execute judgment on those who defy Him. This should encourage us to live righteously and trust in His justice. <a href="/topical/t/the_illusion_of_security.htm">The Illusion of Security</a> Earthly power and wealth can create an illusion of security, but true safety is found only in God. We should seek refuge in Him rather than in worldly status or possessions. <a href="/topical/t/the_witness_of_judgment.htm">The Witness of Judgment</a> The reaction of passersby to Nineveh's fall serves as a reminder that our actions and their consequences are observed by others. Our lives should reflect God's righteousness to those around us. <a href="/topical/r/repentance_and_humility.htm">Repentance and Humility</a> The account of Nineveh calls us to repentance and humility before God. We should regularly examine our lives and turn from any prideful ways.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_zephaniah_2.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Zephaniah 2</a> <a href="/q/what_is_atman_in_hinduism.htm">What do owls symbolize in the Bible?</a> <a href="/q/does_proverbs_10_15_conflict_with_jesus.htm">Proverbs 10:15 depicts wealth as a 'fortified city'--does this conflict with Jesus' warnings about riches in the New Testament?</a> <a href="/q/does_psalm_73_12_conflict_with_history.htm">Psalm 73:12 implies the wicked live untroubled lives--does this conflict with historical records of corrupt nations eventually falling apart?</a> <a href="/q/evidence_for_gaza,_ashkelon_destruction.htm">Zephaniah 2:4 references the destruction of Gaza and Ashkelon; what archaeological or historical evidence supports such a cataclysmic event?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/zephaniah/2.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 15. - This is the rejoicing city. Such is the fate of this once exulting city, that dwelt carelessly, secure, with no fear of danger at hand (<a href="/isaiah/47-8.htm">Isaiah 47:8</a>, on which this passage is founded). I am, and there is none beside me. Thus, in effect, Nineveh claimed for himself the attributes of Almighty God. She stands alone, mistress of nations, a type of the powers of this world, which deify themselves and defy the Lord. Septuagint, Οὐκ ἔστι μετ ἐμὲ ἔτι, "There is no more any after me." Shall hiss. In scorn (<a href="/job/27-23.htm">Job 27:23</a>; <a href="/jeremiah/19-8.htm">Jeremiah 19:8</a>; <a href="/micah/6-16.htm">Micah 6:16</a>). Wag his hand. He shall shake or wave his hand with the gesture of dismissal, as if saying, "Away with thee! get thee gone!" - a rehearsal of the awful "Depart ye!" in the final judgment (comp. <a href="/nahum/3-19.htm">Nahum 3:19</a>). <a href="/commentaries/zephaniah/2-15.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div>This זֹ֞֠את (zōṯ) Pronoun - feminine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_2063.htm">Strong's 2063: </a> Hereby in it, likewise, the one other, same, she, so much, such deed, that, carefree הָעַלִּיזָה֙ (hā·‘al·lî·zāh) Article | Adjective - feminine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5947.htm">Strong's 5947: </a> Exultant, jubilant city הָעִ֤יר (hā·‘îr) Article | Noun - feminine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5892.htm">Strong's 5892: </a> Excitement that dwells הַיּוֹשֶׁ֣בֶת (hay·yō·wō·še·ḇeṯ) Article | Verb - Qal - Participle - feminine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3427.htm">Strong's 3427: </a> To sit down, to dwell, to remain, to settle, to marry securely, לָבֶ֔טַח (lā·ḇe·ṭaḥ) Preposition-l | Noun - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_983.htm">Strong's 983: </a> A place of refuge, safety, safely that thinks הָאֹֽמְרָה֙ (hā·’ō·mə·rāh) Article | Verb - Qal - Participle - feminine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_559.htm">Strong's 559: </a> To utter, say to herself: בִּלְבָבָ֔הּ (bil·ḇā·ḇāh) Preposition-b | Noun - masculine singular construct | third person feminine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3824.htm">Strong's 3824: </a> Inner man, mind, will, heart ‘I [am it], אֲנִ֖י (’ă·nî) Pronoun - first person common singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_589.htm">Strong's 589: </a> I and [there is] none וְאַפְסִ֣י (wə·’ap̄·sî) Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine singular construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_657.htm">Strong's 657: </a> Cessation, an end, no further, the ankle, foot besides me,’ ע֑וֹד (‘ō·wḏ) Adverb <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5750.htm">Strong's 5750: </a> Iteration, continuance, again, repeatedly, still, more what אֵ֣יךְ ׀ (’êḵ) Interjection <a href="/hebrew/strongs_349.htm">Strong's 349: </a> How?, how!, where a ruin לְשַׁמָּ֗ה (lə·šam·māh) Preposition-l | Noun - feminine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_8047.htm">Strong's 8047: </a> Ruin, consternation she has become, הָיְתָ֣ה (hā·yə·ṯāh) Verb - Qal - Perfect - third person feminine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1961.htm">Strong's 1961: </a> To fall out, come to pass, become, be a resting place מַרְבֵּץ֙ (mar·bêṣ) Noun - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_4769.htm">Strong's 4769: </a> A reclining place, fold for beasts. לַֽחַיָּ֔ה (la·ḥay·yāh) Preposition-l, Article | Noun - feminine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_2416.htm">Strong's 2416: </a> Alive, raw, fresh, strong, life Everyone כֹּ֚ל (kōl) Noun - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3605.htm">Strong's 3605: </a> The whole, all, any, every who passes עוֹבֵ֣ר (‘ō·w·ḇêr) Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5674.htm">Strong's 5674: </a> To pass over, through, or by, pass on by her עָלֶ֔יהָ (‘ā·le·hā) Preposition | third person feminine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5921.htm">Strong's 5921: </a> Above, over, upon, against hisses יִשְׁרֹ֖ק (yiš·rōq) Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_8319.htm">Strong's 8319: </a> To be shrill, to whistle, hiss and shakes יָנִ֥יעַ (yā·nî·a‘) Verb - Hifil - Imperfect - third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5128.htm">Strong's 5128: </a> To quiver, wave, waver, tremble, totter his fist. יָדֽוֹ׃ (yā·ḏōw) Noun - feminine singular construct | third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3027.htm">Strong's 3027: </a> A hand <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/zephaniah/2-15.htm">Zephaniah 2:15 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/zephaniah/2-15.htm">Zephaniah 2:15 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/zephaniah/2-15.htm">Zephaniah 2:15 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/zephaniah/2-15.htm">Zephaniah 2:15 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/zephaniah/2-15.htm">Zephaniah 2:15 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/zephaniah/2-15.htm">Zephaniah 2:15 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/zephaniah/2-15.htm">Zephaniah 2:15 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/zephaniah/2-15.htm">Zephaniah 2:15 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/zephaniah/2-15.htm">Zephaniah 2:15 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/zephaniah/2-15.htm">Zephaniah 2:15 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/zephaniah/2-15.htm">OT Prophets: Zephaniah 2:15 This is the joyous city that lived (Zeph. Zep Zp) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/zephaniah/2-14.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Zephaniah 2:14"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Zephaniah 2:14" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/zephaniah/3-1.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Zephaniah 3:1"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Zephaniah 3:1" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>