In Nahum’s vision the Babylonian chariots are still outside the city walls but they have taken control of the streets and squares leading up to the city gates. These are probably the outer suburbs of Nineveh.1
The people of Nineveh have retreated to behind the gates waiting for the invasion that is to come. There is now no escape for the Lord’s enemy from his judgment.2
As in Nahum 2:3 Nahum describes the Babylonian chariots as a terrifying sight. They gleam like torches and dart like lightning. These fighting machines are fast and intimidating.
4 Les boucliers de ses héros sont rouges, Les guerriers sont vêtus de pourpre; Avec le fer qui étincelle apparaissent les chars, Au jour qu'il a fixé pour la bataille, Et les lances sont agitées.