Old Testament

Lamentations 1:16

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In Lamentations 1:16, the speaker expresses deep sorrow and grief over the destruction of Jerusalem and the suffering of its people.

Author
Traditionally attributed to Jeremiah
Written
Around 586 BC
Genre
Poetry and lament
Original Audience
Judah after the fall of Jerusalem
CBTClear Bible Translation

This is why I weep; my eyes, my eyes overflow with tears, because the comforter who should relieve my soul is far from me. My children are desolate, because the enemy has prevailed.

KJVKing James Version

For these things I weep; mine eye, mine eye runneth down with water, because the comforter that should relieve my soul is far from me: my children are desolate, because the enemy prevailed.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In Lamentations 1:16, the speaker expresses deep sorrow and grief over the destruction of Jerusalem and the suffering of its people. The repetition of 'my eyes' emphasizes the intensity of their tears and pain. The 'comforter' refers to someone who should provide solace and support, but is absent, leaving the speaker feeling abandoned. The mention of 'my children' highlights the loss and desolation experienced by families, as the enemy has triumphed, leading to devastation and despair. This verse captures the profound sense of loss and the longing for comfort in times of great distress, illustrating the emotional turmoil faced by those witnessing the destruction of their homeland and loved ones.

Key themes

Related topics

grief, desolation, loss

How to apply Lamentations 1:16 to your life

In times of sorrow and loss, it is important to acknowledge our feelings and seek comfort from others. This verse reminds us that we are not alone in our struggles and encourages us to reach out for support, whether through friends, family, or faith communities.

Curated for this public verse page. Lamentations Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Lamentations 1:16 mean?

Lamentations 1:16 expresses the deep sorrow of the speaker over the destruction of Jerusalem and the suffering of its people. The verse highlights feelings of abandonment as the comforter, who should provide solace, is absent, leaving the speaker in grief for their desolate children.

What is the meaning of 'comforter' in Lamentations 1:16?

In Lamentations 1:16, the 'comforter' refers to someone who is expected to provide support and relief during times of distress. The absence of this comforter intensifies the speaker's feelings of sorrow and abandonment amidst the devastation.

How does Lamentations 1:16 relate to feelings of loss?

Lamentations 1:16 relates to feelings of loss by illustrating the intense sorrow of a parent witnessing the devastation of their children and community. It emphasizes the emotional turmoil that accompanies such loss and the desire for comfort that remains unfulfilled.

What themes are present in Lamentations 1:16?

The themes present in Lamentations 1:16 include grief, desolation, loss, abandonment, and the longing for comfort. These themes reflect the emotional struggles faced by individuals during times of suffering and the impact of external circumstances on personal well-being.

The Book of Lamentations
Book Summary

The Book of Lamentations

Lamentations 1: Jerusalem’s Sorrow

The narrator describes Jerusalem sitting alone like a widow who once was great among the nations. The city that was princess among provinces now becomes a slave, and she weeps bitterly in the night with tears on her cheeks. None of her lovers comfort her, and all her friends deal treacherously with her and become her enemies. Judah goes into captivity because of affliction and great servitude, and she dwells among the nations but finds no rest. Her pursuers overtake her between narrow places, and the ways of Zion mourn because no one comes to the solemn feasts.

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