The term "emptiers" is found in the context of biblical prophecy and judgment, specifically in the book of Nahum. It refers to those who bring destruction and desolation, often as instruments of divine judgment against nations or cities that have turned away from God.

Biblical Reference:

· Nahum 2:2 : "For the LORD will restore the splendor of Jacob like the splendor of Israel, though destroyers have laid them waste and have ruined their vines."

In this passage, the "destroyers" or "emptiers" are those who have brought devastation upon the people of Israel and Judah. The prophecy of Nahum is primarily directed against Nineveh, the capital of the Assyrian Empire, which was notorious for its cruelty and oppression. The Assyrians, as "emptiers," had previously invaded and plundered the Northern Kingdom of Israel, leading to its downfall in 722 B.C.

Historical Context:

The Assyrian Empire, known for its military prowess and brutal tactics, often acted as an "emptier" in the ancient Near East. Their campaigns were marked by the destruction of cities, the deportation of populations, and the looting of wealth. This historical backdrop provides insight into the prophetic language used by Nahum, as he foretells the impending judgment and downfall of Nineveh itself.

Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, the concept of "emptiers" serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and justice. While nations like Assyria may rise in power and act as instruments of judgment, they are ultimately subject to God's authority. The prophecy in Nahum assures the faithful that God will not allow the wicked to prevail indefinitely. The destruction brought by the "emptiers" is temporary, and God's plan for restoration and redemption will ultimately triumph.

Symbolism and Imagery:

The imagery of "emptiers" conveys a sense of complete desolation and loss. It evokes the picture of a land stripped bare, akin to a vineyard that has been ravaged, leaving nothing behind. This vivid imagery underscores the severity of divine judgment but also highlights the hope of restoration, as God promises to restore the splendor of His people despite the devastation they have endured.

Application:

In a broader spiritual application, the concept of "emptiers" can be seen as a metaphor for the forces that seek to drain spiritual vitality and lead believers away from God. Just as the physical emptiers brought ruin to nations, spiritual emptiers can lead to moral and spiritual decay. Believers are called to remain vigilant, trusting in God's ultimate justice and restoration, and to seek His strength in overcoming the challenges posed by such destructive forces.

Nahum's Doom of Nineveh
... For the LORD bringeth again the excellency of Jacob, as the excellency of Israel:
for the emptiers have emptied them out, and marred their vine branches. ...
/.../select masterpieces of biblical literature/xi nahums doom of nineveh.htm

Emptiers (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Emptiers (1 Occurrence). Nahum 2:2 For the LORD
hath turned away the excellency of Jacob, as the excellency ...
/e/emptiers.htm - 6k

Emptier

/e/emptier.htm - 8k

Vine-branches (1 Occurrence)
... Nahum 2:2 For Jehovah restoreth the excellency of Jacob, as the excellency of Israel;
for the emptiers have emptied them out, and destroyed their vine-branches ...
/v/vine-branches.htm - 6k

Restoring (8 Occurrences)
... Nahum 2:2 For the LORD restoreth the pride of Jacob, as the pride of Israel; for
the emptiers have emptied them out, and marred their vine-branches.-- (See RSV ...
/r/restoring.htm - 8k

Restoreth (7 Occurrences)
... Nahum 2:2 For Jehovah restoreth the excellency of Jacob, as the excellency of Israel;
for the emptiers have emptied them out, and destroyed their vine-branches ...
/r/restoreth.htm - 8k

Empties (1 Occurrence)

/e/empties.htm - 6k

Emptied (20 Occurrences)
... Nahum 2:2 For the LORD hath turned away the excellency of Jacob, as the excellency
of Israel: for the emptiers have emptied them out, and marred their vine ...
/e/emptied.htm - 12k

Marred (7 Occurrences)
... Nahum 2:2 For the LORD hath turned away the excellency of Jacob, as the excellency
of Israel: for the emptiers have emptied them out, and marred their vine ...
/m/marred.htm - 8k

Excellence (31 Occurrences)
... Nahum 2:2 For the LORD hath turned away the excellence of Jacob, as the excellence
of Israel: for the emptiers have emptied them out, and marred their vine ...
/e/excellence.htm - 15k

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