Old Testament
Lamentations 1:15
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The LORD has trampled underfoot all my mighty men within me. He has called an assembly against me to crush my young men. The LORD has trampled the virgin daughter of Judah as in a winepress.
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The LORD hath trodden under foot all my mighty men in the midst of me: he hath called an assembly against me to crush my young men: the LORD hath trodden the virgin, the daughter of Judah, as in a winepress.
What Lamentations 1:15 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Lamentations 1:15, the speaker expresses deep sorrow and despair over the destruction of Jerusalem and its people. The imagery of the LORD trampling mighty men and crushing young men suggests a complete defeat and loss of strength. The reference to the virgin daughter of Judah being trampled like grapes in a winepress symbolizes the intense suffering and humiliation faced by the people. This verse highlights the severity of God's judgment and the pain of loss experienced by the community. The assembly called against the speaker indicates a collective suffering, where not just individuals but the entire nation is affected. The use of strong imagery emphasizes the gravity of the situation, portraying a sense of hopelessness and devastation. This lament serves as a reminder of the consequences of turning away from God and the resulting anguish that follows. It reflects the emotional turmoil of a people grappling with their circumstances and seeking understanding in their suffering.
How to apply Lamentations 1:15 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on the consequences of our actions and the importance of remaining faithful to God. In times of hardship, we can find solace in acknowledging our struggles and seeking God's guidance. It reminds us to support one another in our communities during difficult times.
Curated for this public verse page. Lamentations Summary
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Photo: Diego Delso, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. Source. Location: Tell es-Sultan, Jericho, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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Keep studying Lamentations 1:15
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Key themes
At a Glance — the Book of Lamentations
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Jeremiah
- Written
- Around 586 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and lament
- Original Audience
- Judah after the fall of Jerusalem
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Lamentations 1:15 mean about God's judgment?
Lamentations 1:15 illustrates the severity of God's judgment against Jerusalem. The imagery of God trampling mighty men and crushing young men signifies total defeat and loss of strength within the community. This verse serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of turning away from God, highlighting the pain and suffering that can result from disobedience.
How does the imagery in Lamentations 1:15 affect its meaning?
The imagery in Lamentations 1:15, particularly the comparison of the virgin daughter of Judah being trampled like grapes in a winepress, powerfully conveys the intense suffering and humiliation experienced by the people. This vivid metaphor emphasizes the gravity of their situation and evokes a deep emotional response, allowing readers to grasp the extent of the community's despair.
What can we learn from Lamentations 1:15 about community suffering?
Lamentations 1:15 highlights the collective nature of suffering, showing that the pain of one affects the whole community. It encourages us to recognize the importance of supporting one another during difficult times. This verse reminds us that we are not alone in our struggles and that communal grief can lead to a deeper understanding of our shared humanity and reliance on God.
How can Lamentations 1:15 guide us in times of hardship?
In times of hardship, Lamentations 1:15 encourages us to acknowledge our struggles and seek God's guidance. It serves as a reminder to remain faithful and to turn to God for strength and support. By reflecting on the consequences of our actions and the importance of community, we can find solace and resilience in our faith during challenging times.
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