Art thou, O Nineveh, better than populous No? it is generally supposed that this was what we now call Alexandria, a city full of people, and as full of luxury and uncleanness, the sins whereof had brought it to ruin, though the history of it do not specify time, person, or means, &c. Art thou greater, stronger, and wiser, more able to resist, an enemy, and preserve thyself? Yet all her power was broken, her riches spoiled, and her glory buried in ruins. This, known in those days, was a fit example to be set before the Ninevites; and though some conjecture the prophet foretells what should befall populous No, to awaken the Ninevites, yet it seems incredible that the prophet should take an instance to terrify secure Ninevites from somewhat to come to pass in after-ages. Situate among the rivers; in a place where the seven streams of Nilus very fairly might be accounted so many rivers, and near to one of these streams, toward the sea, was this mighty and rich city seated. The waters round about it; though at some distance, yet at no great distance. Whose rampart, or defence of its walls on one side, was the sea; that part of the Midland Sea which was Mare Egyptiacum, and was northward from the city. Her wall was from the sea; a mighty strong wall built from the sea, on the parts landward, where need was.
Related Commentaries of Nahum 3:8
Nahum 3:8
8 Art thou better than populousc No, that was situate among the rivers, that had the waters round about it, whose rampart was the sea, and her wall was from the sea?