Old Testament

Lamentations 2:5

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

At a Glance

In Lamentations 2:5, the author expresses deep sorrow 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

The LORD became like an enemy. He swallowed up Israel—swallowed up all her palaces and destroyed her fortresses. He multiplied mourning and lamentation throughout the daughter of Judah.

KJVKing James Version

The LORD was as an enemy: he hath swallowed up Israel, he hath swallowed up all her palaces: he hath destroyed his strong holds, and hath increased in the daughter of Judah mourning and lamentation.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In Lamentations 2:5, the author expresses deep sorrow over the destruction of Jerusalem and the suffering of its people. The verse portrays God as an enemy, emphasizing the severity of Israel's situation. The imagery of God swallowing up Israel and her strongholds signifies total devastation. The mention of multiplied mourning and lamentation highlights the emotional and spiritual anguish experienced by the people of Judah. This reflects a profound sense of loss and abandonment, as the once-protected city now faces ruin. The verse serves as a reminder of the consequences of turning away from God and the resulting despair that can follow. It illustrates the gravity of sin and its impact on a community, showing that divine judgment can lead to overwhelming sorrow and destruction. The lamentation is not just about physical loss but also about the spiritual desolation that accompanies such events, urging readers to reflect on their relationship with God and the importance of faithfulness.

How to apply Lamentations 2:5 to your life

This verse encourages us to reflect on our relationship with God and the importance of remaining faithful. It serves as a warning about the consequences of turning away from Him. In times of distress, we should seek to understand our circumstances and turn back to God for healing and restoration.

Curated for this public verse page. Lamentations Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Lamentations 2:5 mean?

Lamentations 2:5 expresses the sorrow over Jerusalem's destruction, portraying God as an enemy who has devastated Israel. It highlights the deep mourning and lamentation among the people of Judah due to their suffering and loss.

What is the significance of God being described as an enemy in Lamentations 2:5?

Describing God as an enemy in Lamentations 2:5 emphasizes the severity of Israel's situation and the consequences of their actions. It reflects the deep sense of abandonment felt by the people as they face destruction.

What does 'swallowed up' mean in Lamentations 2:5?

In Lamentations 2:5, 'swallowed up' signifies total devastation, indicating that God has completely consumed Israel and her strongholds, leading to overwhelming loss and sorrow.

How does Lamentations 2:5 relate to the themes of loss and sorrow?

Lamentations 2:5 illustrates the themes of loss and sorrow by depicting the emotional anguish of the people of Judah after their city is destroyed. The verse highlights the mourning that follows such devastation.

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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