Old Testament
Lamentations 2:20
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Lamentations 2:20, the speaker is crying out to God, questioning the severity of the suffering experienced by the people of Jerusalem.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Jeremiah
- Written
- Around 586 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and lament
- Original Audience
- Judah after the fall of Jerusalem
"Look, LORD, and consider — who have you done this to? Should mothers eat the children they carried and cradled? Should priests and prophets be slaughtered in the sanctuary of the Lord?"
Behold, O LORD, and consider to whom thou hast done this. Shall the women eat their fruit, and children of a span long? shall the priest and the prophet be slain in the sanctuary of the Lord?
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Lamentations 2:20, the speaker is crying out to God, questioning the severity of the suffering experienced by the people of Jerusalem. The verse highlights the horror of mothers resorting to cannibalism, eating their own children, which symbolizes the extreme desperation and despair in the face of divine judgment. The mention of priests and prophets being killed in the sanctuary underscores the breakdown of spiritual leadership and the sanctity of worship. This lamentation reflects the deep anguish and confusion of the people as they grapple with the consequences of their actions and the perceived abandonment by God. The rhetorical questions emphasize the shocking nature of their plight, inviting God to witness the tragedy and injustice unfolding. It serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences of sin and the depth of human suffering when divine protection is removed.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Lamentations 2:20 to your life
This verse challenges us to reflect on the consequences of our actions and the impact of sin on our lives and communities. It encourages us to seek God earnestly in times of crisis and to support those who are suffering, reminding us of the importance of compassion and justice.
Curated for this public verse page. Lamentations Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Lamentations 2:20 mean about mothers eating their children?
Lamentations 2:20 uses the shocking imagery of mothers eating their children to illustrate the extreme desperation and suffering faced by the people of Jerusalem. This metaphor highlights the depths of despair that can occur when a community experiences divine judgment and feels abandoned by God. It serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of sin and the dire situations that can arise from turning away from God.
Why are priests and prophets mentioned in Lamentations 2:20?
The mention of priests and prophets in Lamentations 2:20 emphasizes the breakdown of spiritual leadership during a time of crisis. Their slaughter in the sanctuary signifies a loss of moral and spiritual guidance, which further contributes to the chaos and suffering of the people. This highlights the importance of strong spiritual leadership in maintaining hope and order, especially in times of great distress.
How can Lamentations 2:20 apply to our lives today?
Lamentations 2:20 encourages us to reflect on the consequences of our actions and the impact of sin on our lives and communities. It challenges us to seek God earnestly during crises and to extend compassion to those who are suffering. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of justice and mercy, urging us to support one another in times of need and to remain vigilant in our spiritual lives.
What themes are present in Lamentations 2:20?
Lamentations 2:20 encompasses several themes, including suffering, desperation, divine judgment, and the breakdown of spiritual leadership. It also touches on the extreme measures people may resort to in times of crisis, such as cannibalism, which symbolizes profound despair. The verse serves as a lamentation for injustice and the consequences of sin, inviting reflection on the human condition and the need for divine intervention.
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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