נחום, פרק ג׳, פסוק ח׳

A powerful empire often falls into the trap of believing its defenses are unbreakable. To shatter the false sense of security held by Nineveh, the mighty capital of Assyria, a striking historical comparison is drawn to another fallen city. This comparison serves as both a severe warning and an ironic comfort, making it clear that just as a once impenetrable fortress was destroyed, Nineveh will face the exact same fate.

The prophet challenges Nineveh, asking if it is truly better, more successful, or safer than the great Egyptian imperial capital, No-Amon. The primary approach among commentators ([רש"י], [רד"ק], and [מצודות]) identifies this Egyptian stronghold as Alexandria. However, [אברבנאל] argues against this on historical grounds, noting that Alexandria was founded by Alexander the Great long after these events took place, suggesting instead that the reference points to another major Egyptian city. The very name of the city hints at its significance. One perspective ([רש"י] and [אברבנאל]) explains that the name implies a caretaker or nursemaid, as it was the prestigious center where the kings of Egypt were raised and educated. Another perspective ([מצודות]) suggests the name denotes a multitude, highlighting its vast population.

The Egyptian capital boasted perfect natural defenses. It sat directly on the Nile River, entirely surrounded by its branches and canals. [רד"ק] adds that water even flowed beneath the city itself, giving its residents absolute confidence that they could outlast any siege. Drawing a direct parallel, [מלבי"ם] notes that just as Nineveh trusted in its position on the Tigris River, the Egyptian capital put its faith in its own rivers. Beyond the rivers, the city drew immense strength from the sea, rendering traditional stone walls completely unnecessary. The sea itself served a dual purpose, acting as both the lower, outer rampart and the towering, inner wall. [אבן עזרא] and [אברבנאל] suggest that the Red Sea guarded one side of the city while the Great Sea protected the other, creating a seemingly perfect shield.

Yet despite its overwhelming military might, its massive population, and its impenetrable water defenses, this great Egyptian city was ultimately conquered and left in ruins by the king of Babylon. The message delivered to Nineveh is sharp and uncompromising. It is a warning not to trust in wealth or walls of water, because Nineveh's final destiny will be no better than the ruin of the empire that came before it.