Old Testament
Lamentations 2:18
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The people's hearts cry out to the Lord. O wall of the daughter of Zion, let tears pour down like a river day and night! Give yourself no relief — don't let your eyes stop weeping.
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Their heart cried unto the LORD, O wall of the daughter of Zion, let tears run down like a river day and night: give thyself no rest; let not the apple of thine eye cease.
What Lamentations 2:18 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Lamentations 2:18, the people of Jerusalem express their deep sorrow and desperation to God. They are portrayed as crying out to the Lord, pleading for help amidst their suffering. The imagery of tears flowing like a river emphasizes the intensity of their grief. The phrase 'O wall of the daughter of Zion' symbolizes the city of Jerusalem, which is personified as a protective wall that is now in ruins. The call to 'give yourself no relief' and 'let not your eyes stop weeping' highlights the urgency of their lamentation. This verse captures the emotional turmoil of a community facing devastation, urging them to remain in a state of mourning until their plight is addressed. It reflects the profound connection between the people and their city, as well as their reliance on God during times of distress. The verse serves as a reminder of the importance of expressing grief and seeking divine intervention in moments of despair.
How to apply Lamentations 2:18 to your life
In times of personal or communal sorrow, it is important to express our feelings honestly to God. This verse encourages us to bring our grief to Him without holding back. We can also support others in their mourning, reminding them that it is okay to cry out for help and seek comfort in faith.
Curated for this public verse page. Lamentations Summary
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Keep studying Lamentations 2:18
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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 2:18 mean?
Lamentations 2:18 expresses the deep sorrow of the people of Jerusalem as they cry out to God for help. It emphasizes their intense grief and the urgency of their lamentation, symbolizing their reliance on God during their suffering.
What is the significance of 'O wall of the daughter of Zion' in Lamentations 2:18?
The phrase 'O wall of the daughter of Zion' symbolizes Jerusalem itself, personifying the city as a protective wall that is now in ruins. This imagery highlights the devastation experienced by the community and their emotional connection to their homeland.
How does Lamentations 2:18 relate to expressing grief?
Lamentations 2:18 encourages individuals to express their grief openly and honestly to God. It serves as a reminder that it is important to bring our sorrows to Him and seek comfort during times of distress.
What themes are present in Lamentations 2:18?
Key themes in Lamentations 2:18 include grief, desperation, prayer, and the need for divine help. The verse reflects the emotional turmoil of a community facing suffering and the importance of lamentation.
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