Old Testament
Lamentations 3:36
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
This verse emphasizes that God does not support actions that unjustly undermine or subvert a person's rightful cause or situation.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Jeremiah
- Written
- Around 586 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and lament
- Original Audience
- Judah after the fall of Jerusalem
To undermine a man in his cause, the LORD does not approve.
To subvert a man in his cause, the LORD approveth not.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse emphasizes that God does not support actions that unjustly undermine or subvert a person's rightful cause or situation. It highlights the importance of integrity and fairness in our dealings with others. When someone tries to manipulate or deceive another person to gain an advantage, it goes against God's principles. The verse serves as a reminder that God values justice and righteousness, and He disapproves of any actions that lead to the oppression or unfair treatment of individuals. It encourages believers to act with honesty and to uphold the truth in their interactions, ensuring that they do not engage in practices that would harm others or violate their rights. Ultimately, this verse calls for a commitment to justice and ethical behavior, reflecting God's character in our lives.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Lamentations 3:36 to your life
In our daily lives, we should strive to support others in their rightful causes and avoid actions that could harm or undermine them. This means being honest in our dealings, standing up for those who are treated unfairly, and ensuring that our actions reflect God's values of justice and integrity.
Curated for this public verse page. Lamentations Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Lamentations 3:36 mean?
Lamentations 3:36 means that God does not support actions that unjustly undermine or subvert a person's rightful cause. It emphasizes the importance of integrity and fairness in our interactions with others.
What is the meaning of 'subvert a man in his cause' in Lamentations 3:36?
The phrase 'subvert a man in his cause' refers to actions that manipulate or deceive someone to gain an unfair advantage over them. This verse indicates that such actions are disapproved by God.
How does Lamentations 3:36 apply to daily life?
In daily life, Lamentations 3:36 encourages us to act with honesty and support others in their rightful causes. It reminds us to avoid actions that could harm or undermine others.
What themes are present in Lamentations 3:36?
The themes present in Lamentations 3:36 include justice, integrity, fairness, divine disapproval of wrongdoing, and the call for righteousness in our actions.

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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