5 The people of Nineveh believed in God. They announced a fast, and all of them, from the greatest to the least, put on sackcloth.3:5. To show their repentance.
6 When the news of what was happening reached the king of Nineveh he came down from his throne, took off his robe, put on sackcloth, and sat in ashes. 7 Then the king and the nobles issued a proclamation throughout Nineveh: "No person, no animal, no herd, and no flock, shall eat or drink anything. 8 Every person and every animal is to wear sackcloth. Everyone is to pray sincerely3:8. Literally, "with force." to God, give up the evil things they do, and stop using violence. 9 Who knows? God may change his mind and relent. He may decide not to destroy us in his fierce anger."