Aspect Description
Period The Book of Jonah is believed to have been written in the 8th century BCE, during the reign of King Jeroboam II of Israel (793–753 BCE).
Author The book is attributed to the prophet Jonah, the son of Amittai, but the exact authorship remains unknown as it was likely written by a later compiler.
Political Context During Jonah's time, the Northern Kingdom of Israel was experiencing a period of relative prosperity and expansion under Jeroboam II. However, Assyria was a growing threat in the region.
Cultural Context Assyria, with its capital at Nineveh, was known for its military prowess and brutality. The Israelite view of the Assyrians was largely negative, seeing them as enemies and oppressors.
Religious Context Prophets in Israel often delivered messages of repentance and warnings from God. Jonah's mission to Nineveh represented a significant departure as it was directed towards a non-Israelite audience.
Theological Themes The Book of Jonah emphasizes God's mercy and compassion, even towards non-Israelite nations. It challenges the narrow nationalist views and demonstrates that God cares for all people.
Main Events The main events include Jonah's call by God to go to Nineveh, his attempt to flee to Tarshish, being swallowed by a big fish, and eventually delivering God's message to Nineveh leading to their repentance.
Literary Style The book is written in a narrative style with elements of satire and irony, highlighting Jonah's reluctance and God's unwavering purpose.
Significance Aside from its theological teachings, the Book of Jonah highlights themes of forgiveness, obedience, and the universal scope of God's love and mercy.


Chapter Summary
Chapter 1 Jonah Flees from God
Jonah is commanded by God to go to Nineveh and preach against its wickedness. Instead, Jonah attempts to flee to Tarshish by sea. A great storm arises, leading the sailors to cast lots to find the cause of the storm, which falls on Jonah. Jonah is thrown overboard and swallowed by a large fish.
Chapter 2 Jonah's Prayer and Deliverance
Inside the fish, Jonah prays to God in a psalm of thanksgiving and repentance. After three days and nights, God commands the fish to vomit Jonah onto dry land.
Chapter 3 Jonah Goes to Nineveh
God commands Jonah a second time to go to Nineveh. He finally obeys and preaches that Nineveh will be overturned in forty days. The people of Nineveh, from the king to the commoners, repent and fast. God sees their repentance and spares the city from destruction.
Chapter 4 Jonah's Anger and God's Compassion
Jonah is displeased and angry that God showed mercy to Nineveh. He leaves the city and makes a shelter, waiting to see what will happen. God provides a leafy plant to shade Jonah, but the next day sends a worm to destroy it. Jonah is upset about the plant's demise, and God uses this to teach Jonah about His compassion for the people of Nineveh.