Old Testament
Lamentations 2:12
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Lamentations 2:12, the scene depicts children in a state of despair, crying out to their mothers for basic necessities like bread and wine.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Jeremiah
- Written
- Around 586 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and lament
- Original Audience
- Judah after the fall of Jerusalem
They cry out to their mothers, "Where is the bread? Where is the wine?" They collapse like the wounded in the city streets, as their soul is poured out into their mothers' bosom.
They say to their mothers, Where is corn and wine? when they swooned as the wounded in the streets of the city, when their soul was poured out into their mothers’ bosom.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Lamentations 2:12, the scene depicts children in a state of despair, crying out to their mothers for basic necessities like bread and wine. This reflects the dire circumstances they face, as they are suffering from hunger and possibly injury. The imagery of them collapsing in the streets emphasizes the severity of their plight, as they are not just physically weak but emotionally devastated. The phrase 'poured out into their mothers' bosom' suggests a deep connection between the children and their mothers, highlighting the pain of both parties. The mothers are helpless to provide comfort or sustenance, illustrating the broader devastation of the community. This verse captures the profound sorrow and helplessness experienced during a time of crisis, where even the most basic needs are unmet, and the bond between parent and child is strained by suffering.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Lamentations 2:12 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of compassion and support in times of crisis. We should be attentive to the needs of those around us, especially children and vulnerable individuals. Offering help, whether through food, emotional support, or community resources, can make a significant difference in alleviating suffering.
Curated for this public verse page. Lamentations Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Lamentations 2:12 mean?
Lamentations 2:12 portrays a heartbreaking scene where children cry out to their mothers for basic needs like bread and wine amidst their suffering. This verse highlights the desperation and despair faced by the community, as children are not only physically weak but also emotionally devastated. The imagery of collapsing in the streets underscores the severity of their plight, emphasizing the helplessness of both the children and their mothers during a time of crisis.
How can Lamentations 2:12 be applied today?
This verse serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of compassion and support in our communities. It encourages us to be aware of the needs of those around us, particularly vulnerable individuals like children. By offering assistance—whether through food, emotional support, or community resources—we can help alleviate suffering and foster a sense of connection and care, much like the bond depicted between the mothers and their children in this verse.
What themes are present in Lamentations 2:12?
Lamentations 2:12 encompasses several profound themes, including despair, the maternal bond, suffering, basic needs, and community crisis. The verse illustrates the deep emotional pain experienced by both children and mothers during a time of hardship, highlighting the impact of societal collapse on familial relationships and the urgent need for compassion and support in times of distress.
Why do the children ask for bread and wine in this verse?
In Lamentations 2:12, the children asking for bread and wine symbolizes their basic needs for sustenance and comfort during a time of extreme hardship. Bread often represents physical nourishment, while wine can symbolize joy and emotional support. Their cries reflect not only their hunger but also their longing for the stability and care that their mothers are unable to provide due to the overwhelming circumstances they face.
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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