Old Testament
Lamentations 3:15
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Lamentations 3:15, the speaker expresses deep sorrow and despair.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Jeremiah
- Written
- Around 586 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and lament
- Original Audience
- Judah after the fall of Jerusalem
He has filled me with bitterness and made me drunk with wormwood.
He hath filled me with bitterness, he hath made me drunken with wormwood.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Lamentations 3:15, the speaker expresses deep sorrow and despair. The imagery of being filled with bitterness suggests overwhelming grief and pain. The term 'wormwood' refers to a bitter herb, symbolizing suffering and distress. The phrase 'made me drunk' indicates a loss of control, as if the bitterness has consumed the speaker, leading to a state of confusion and anguish. This verse reflects the emotional turmoil experienced during times of great loss and suffering, highlighting the intensity of the speaker's feelings. It serves as a poignant reminder of the struggles faced in life, particularly in the context of loss and mourning. The use of strong imagery emphasizes the depth of despair, making it relatable to anyone who has experienced similar feelings of hopelessness and sorrow. Overall, this verse encapsulates the profound impact of grief and the struggle to find solace amidst overwhelming pain.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Lamentations 3:15 to your life
When facing difficult times, it's important to acknowledge feelings of bitterness and sorrow. Instead of suppressing these emotions, we can seek support from others and turn to spiritual practices for healing. Understanding that these feelings are part of the human experience can help us navigate through our pain.
Curated for this public verse page. Lamentations Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Lamentations 3:15 mean?
Lamentations 3:15 expresses the speaker's deep sorrow and despair, describing how they feel overwhelmed by bitterness and suffering. The imagery suggests a loss of control due to intense grief, highlighting the emotional turmoil experienced during difficult times.
What is the meaning of 'wormwood' in Lamentations 3:15?
In Lamentations 3:15, 'wormwood' refers to a bitter herb that symbolizes suffering and distress. It emphasizes the depth of the speaker's anguish and the bitterness of their experiences.
How can I apply Lamentations 3:15 to my life?
You can apply Lamentations 3:15 by acknowledging your feelings of bitterness and sorrow during tough times. Seeking support from others and engaging in spiritual practices can help you navigate through your pain.
What themes are present in Lamentations 3:15?
The themes present in Lamentations 3:15 include bitterness, suffering, grief, loss, despair, and emotional turmoil. These themes reflect the struggles faced during times of great distress.

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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