an exceedingly great city, requiring a three-day journey: God wanted to save this vast city, full of people and resources (Jonah 4:11). Jonah opposed God's desire (see Jonah 4:2, 10–11).
The city was about 4.8 kilometers (3 miles) in distance around it. It would not have taken three days to walk around the city itself. This description likely refers to the time Jonah needed to travel through the city and share his message. It may also include nearby villages along with the main city.