Habakkuk

Habakkuk complains to **YHWH** about violence and injustice in Judah, questioning why He does not intervene (Hab 1:2-4). **YHWH** responds by raising up the Kasdim (Chaldeans/Babylonians) as an instrument of judgment, though Habakkuk protests their greater wickedness (Hab 1:5-17).

YHWH responds to Habakkuk's complaint by instructing him to write down a vision of divine judgment, assuring him that justice will come though it may be delayed.[2] God pronounces five woes against the proud, greedy, violent, and idolatrous, declaring that those who exploit others through unjust gain and bloodshed will face divine retribution, while the earth will ultimately be filled with the knowledge of YHWH's glory.[1][2]

Habakkuk's prayer (təfillâ) invokes YHWH's past theophany from Teman and Mount Paran, depicting His majestic power over creation, nations, rivers, and enemies for the salvation of His people and anointed one, crushing the wicked.[1][2][5] Despite trembling at coming judgment, he rejoices in YHWH, the God of his salvation, trusting Him as strength to make his feet like hinds' feet on high places amid desolation.[1][2][5]