| Former half | Relation | Latter half |
| 1 The consuming wrath of God (1:1-8) Before his wrath, who can stand firm, and who can face his blazing anger? His fury is poured out like fire, and the rocks are rent asunder before him. (1:6) | Judgment by fire | 7 Judgment on Nineveh (3:7-19) There the fire shall consume you, the sword shall cut you down. (3:15) |
| 2 Evil plot (1:9-11) It is he who will make an end (1:9) | The LORD come against | 6 Ruin imminent and inevitable (2:12-3:6) I come against you, says the LORD of hosts (2:14) |
| 3 Breaking the yoke (1:12-14 ) Now will I break his yoke from off you (1:13) | Captivity and liberation | 5 The destruction of the wicked city (2:4-11) Its mistress is led forth captive (2:8) |
| Former half | Relation | Latter half |
| 1 The consuming wrath of God (1:1-8) a refuge on the day of distress (1:7) | To protect | 4 Good news for Judah (2:1-3) guard the rampart, Keep watch on the road (2:2) |
| 2 Evil plot (1:9-11) when a tangle of thornbushes is set aflame, like dry stubble, they shall be utterly consumed (1:10) | Removal of obstacles | 3 Breaking the yoke (1:12-14 ) Now will I break his yoke from off you (1:13) |
| Former half | Relation | Latter half |
| 4 Good news for Judah (2:1-3) he is completely destroyed (2:1) | Destruction of enemies | 7 Judgment on Nineveh (3:7-19) Nineveh is destroyed (3:7) |
| 5 The destruction of the wicked city (2:4-11) Fiery steel are the chariots on the day of his mustering (2:4) | Wars | 6 Ruin imminent and inevitable (2:12-3:6) The crack of the whip, the rumbling sounds of wheels; horses a-gallop, chariots bounding (3:2) |