Context and Background:
Habakkuk, a prophet in the Old Testament, is known for his dialogue with God concerning the state of Judah and the impending judgment through the Babylonians. His second complaint is found in Habakkuk 1:12–2:1. This passage follows God's initial response to Habakkuk's first complaint, where God reveals His plan to use the Babylonians as an instrument of judgment against Judah.

Textual Analysis:
In Habakkuk 1:12, the prophet begins his second complaint by affirming God's eternal nature and covenant relationship with Israel: "Are You not from everlasting, O LORD my God, my Holy One? We will not die. O LORD, You have appointed them to execute judgment; O Rock, You have established them for correction." Here, Habakkuk acknowledges God's sovereignty and holiness, expressing confidence in God's ultimate plan for His people.

Habakkuk continues in verse 13, questioning God's tolerance of evil: "Your eyes are too pure to look upon evil, and You cannot tolerate wrongdoing. So why do You tolerate the faithless? Why are You silent while the wicked swallow up those more righteous than themselves?" This verse highlights the prophet's struggle with the apparent contradiction between God's holiness and the use of a wicked nation like Babylon to punish Judah.

In verses 14-17, Habakkuk uses vivid imagery to describe the Babylonians' ruthless conquests, likening them to fishermen who catch nations in their nets: "You have made men like the fish of the sea, like sea creatures with no ruler. The Chaldeans pull them all up with a hook; they catch them in their net and gather them in their dragnet. So they rejoice and are glad." The prophet is troubled by the Babylonians' success and their idolatrous practices, as they worship their own military might.

Theological Themes:
1. Divine Sovereignty and Justice: Habakkuk's second complaint underscores the tension between God's sovereignty and human understanding of justice. The prophet grapples with the idea that a holy and just God would use a more wicked nation to punish His people. This reflects a broader biblical theme of God's inscrutable ways and His ultimate justice, which may not align with human expectations.

2. Faith and Doubt: Habakkuk's dialogue with God exemplifies a faithful yet questioning heart. The prophet does not shy away from expressing his doubts and confusion, demonstrating that faith can coexist with honest inquiry. This interaction encourages believers to bring their concerns before God, trusting in His wisdom and timing.

3. The Problem of Evil: The passage raises the perennial question of why a good and powerful God allows evil to prosper. Habakkuk's complaint reflects a deep concern for moral order and divine justice, a theme that resonates throughout Scripture and challenges believers to trust in God's ultimate plan.

Prophetic Role and Response:
Habakkuk's role as a prophet is not only to deliver God's message but also to intercede on behalf of the people. His second complaint is an act of intercession, seeking understanding and mercy for Judah. In Habakkuk 2:1, the prophet resolves to wait for God's response: "I will stand at my guard post and station myself on the ramparts. I will watch to see what He will say to me, and how I should answer when corrected." This posture of watchfulness and expectation reflects a commitment to listen and respond to God's revelation.

Historical and Literary Context:
The book of Habakkuk is set against the backdrop of rising Babylonian power in the late 7th century BC. The historical context is crucial for understanding the urgency and intensity of Habakkuk's complaints. The literary structure of the book, with its dialogue format, emphasizes the personal and communal aspects of the prophet's struggle, inviting readers to engage with the text on both levels.

Conclusion:
Habakkuk's second complaint is a profound exploration of faith, justice, and divine sovereignty. It invites believers to wrestle with difficult questions while maintaining trust in God's ultimate purposes. Through this passage, the prophet models a faithful engagement with God, characterized by honesty, humility, and hope.