What does this mean?

[jc_walden]

My forum has disappeared, I get this message instead-

Table 'thetrutha2.smf_settings' doesn't exist


What does it mean?
What can I do?

jw

[Dannii]

That's a serious problem, that table is essential for SMF. Do you have a database backup?

[J. Williams]

It seems like your settings table is missing, try backing up your current database, reinstall a new fresh install; then upload your backup

[Owdy]

I got same issue with my site, 4 tables was dropped. That has something to do with my host, server is braking up.

[jc_walden]

is it possible that I have been hacked by someone who didn't like the content?

jw

[kegobeer]

It's possible, but if they have access to your database server I would expect a lot more damage.  Use a tool like phpMyAdmin to examine your database and see if any other tables are missing.  You should also contact your host and see if there are any MySQL error logs that pertain to your site.