Jonah

Prophecy · Old Testament · Traditionally the prophet Jonah · c. 5th-4th century BCE

The Book of Jonah narrates the story of a reluctant prophet who attempts to flee from God's command to preach repentance to the city of Nineveh. After being swallowed by a great fish and cast onto shore, Jonah fulfills his mission, leading to Nineveh's conversion and divine forgiveness. The narrative serves as a didactic critique of Israelite exclusivism, highlighting the scope of God's mercy toward all nations.

4 chapters

• 1Jonah 1Fleeing God's call, Jonah boards a ship, triggers a severe storm, and is thrown overboard where a great fish swallows him.
• 2Jonah 2From inside the fish, Jonah prays a song of thanksgiving and deliverance, after which the fish vomits him onto dry land.
• 3Jonah 3After Jonah preaches God's message of impending doom, the entire city of Nineveh, including the king, repents, and God spares them.
• 4Jonah 4Displeased by God's mercy to Nineveh, Jonah becomes angry, prompting God to use a withered plant to teach him about compassion.