The Assyrian army led by Nabucco has defeated the army of the Hebrews and is now poised to enter the city and defeat the Israelites once and for all. The Hebrews are scared of what is to come and begin to pray for deliverance. Zaccaria comes along, though, and revives their hope by telling them that Nabucco's daughter is their prisoner. Besides, he goes on to sing, didn't the Lord bring them out of Egypt safely? Likewise, God will defeat this army with the same power and might. (less info)