Old Testament
Lamentations 2:21
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The young and the old lie on the ground in the streets: my virgins and my young men have fallen by the sword; you have slain them in the day of your anger; you have killed, and not pitied.
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The young and the old lie on the ground in the streets: my virgins and my young men are fallen by the sword; thou hast slain them in the day of thine anger; thou hast killed, and not pitied.
What Lamentations 2:21 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Lamentations 2:21, the author expresses deep sorrow over the devastation that has befallen the city. Both the young and the old are depicted as lying dead in the streets, highlighting the indiscriminate nature of the tragedy. The mention of 'my virgins and my young men' emphasizes the loss of innocence and potential, as these individuals represent the future of the community. The verse attributes this calamity to God's anger, suggesting that the destruction was a consequence of divine judgment. The phrase 'you have killed, and not pitied' conveys a sense of abandonment and despair, as it reflects the feeling that God has not shown mercy in the face of such suffering. This lamentation serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences of sin and the seriousness of turning away from God, leading to dire outcomes for the people.
How to apply Lamentations 2:21 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on the consequences of our actions and the importance of seeking God's mercy. In times of hardship, we should remember to turn to God for compassion and guidance, recognizing the weight of our choices and their impact on ourselves and others.
Curated for this public verse page. Lamentations Summary
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Related Bible verses
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 2:21 mean?
Lamentations 2:21 expresses profound grief over the deaths of both the young and old in the streets, illustrating the widespread devastation in the city. It highlights the loss of innocence and potential among the youth, attributing this tragedy to God's anger and lack of mercy.
What is the significance of 'my virgins and my young men' in Lamentations 2:21?
The phrase 'my virgins and my young men' signifies the loss of innocence and the future of the community. It emphasizes the tragedy of young lives cut short, representing the hope and potential that has been lost due to the calamity.
What does 'you have killed, and not pitied' mean in Lamentations 2:21?
The phrase 'you have killed, and not pitied' conveys a sense of abandonment and despair, indicating that God has not shown mercy during this time of suffering. It reflects the deep sorrow felt by the author over the lack of compassion amidst the tragedy.
How does Lamentations 2:21 relate to themes of suffering and loss?
Lamentations 2:21 relates to themes of suffering and loss by portraying the indiscriminate nature of death affecting all ages in the community. It serves as a reminder of the serious consequences of turning away from God, leading to widespread despair.
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