Old Testament
Lamentations 2:7
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Lamentations 2:7, the speaker expresses deep sorrow over the destruction of Jerusalem and the abandonment of its sacred places by God.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Jeremiah
- Written
- Around 586 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and lament
- Original Audience
- Judah after the fall of Jerusalem
The LORD has cast off his altar, he has abhorred his sanctuary, he has given the walls of her palaces into the hand of the enemy. They have made noise in the house of the LORD, as on a solemn feast day.
The LORD hath cast off his altar, he hath abhorred his sanctuary, he hath given up into the hand of the enemy the walls of her palaces; they have made a noise in the house of the LORD, as in the day of a solemn feast.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Lamentations 2:7, the speaker expresses deep sorrow over the destruction of Jerusalem and the abandonment of its sacred places by God. The verse highlights that God has rejected His altar and sanctuary, indicating a severe break in the relationship between God and His people. The walls of the city, once a symbol of strength and protection, have been handed over to enemies, signifying defeat and loss. The mention of noise in the house of the Lord, akin to a feast day, suggests that what was once a place of worship and reverence has become a site of chaos and desecration. This reflects the profound grief and despair felt by the people as they witness the consequences of their actions and the resulting divine judgment. The imagery evokes a sense of mourning for what has been lost and a recognition of the seriousness of turning away from God.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Lamentations 2:7 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of maintaining our relationship with God and the consequences of turning away from Him. It encourages us to cherish our places of worship and to seek God earnestly, ensuring that we do not take His presence for granted.
Curated for this public verse page. Lamentations Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Lamentations 2:7 mean?
Lamentations 2:7 expresses sorrow over God's abandonment of Jerusalem's sacred places, indicating a severe break in His relationship with the people. It highlights the destruction of the city and the chaos that has replaced worship.
What is the significance of God's altar in Lamentations 2:7?
In Lamentations 2:7, God's altar represents His presence and the worship of His people. Its abandonment signifies a loss of divine favor and protection, reflecting the consequences of the people's actions.
What does the phrase 'he has abhorred his sanctuary' mean in Lamentations 2:7?
The phrase 'he has abhorred his sanctuary' indicates that God has rejected the place where He was worshipped, symbolizing a deep sense of loss and the seriousness of the people's sins.
What does Lamentations 2:7 reveal about the state of Jerusalem?
Lamentations 2:7 reveals that Jerusalem has been devastated, with its walls handed over to enemies, illustrating the city's defeat and the profound grief of its inhabitants.

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.
Unlock the full Lamentations summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of Lamentations — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 5 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of Lamentations summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.