Old Testament
Lamentations 3:51
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, the speaker expresses deep emotional pain and sorrow.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Jeremiah
- Written
- Around 586 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and lament
- Original Audience
- Judah after the fall of Jerusalem
My eyes affect my heart because of all the daughters of my city.
Mine eye affecteth mine heart because of all the daughters of my city.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the speaker expresses deep emotional pain and sorrow. The imagery of the eyes affecting the heart suggests that what one sees can deeply impact one's feelings. The 'daughters of my city' likely refer to the young women and families suffering in the aftermath of destruction. The speaker is overwhelmed by the sight of their suffering, which resonates within their heart, highlighting the connection between observation and emotional response. This reflects a broader theme of empathy and compassion, as witnessing the struggles of others can evoke a profound sense of grief and responsibility. The verse captures the essence of lamentation, where the pain of loss and the plight of the community weigh heavily on the individual, emphasizing the importance of being aware of and sensitive to the suffering around us.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Lamentations 3:51 to your life
This verse encourages us to be aware of the suffering around us and to allow ourselves to feel compassion for others. By recognizing the struggles of those in our community, we can be moved to take action, support, and uplift those in need, fostering a spirit of solidarity and care.
Curated for this public verse page. Lamentations Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Lamentations 3:51 mean?
Lamentations 3:51 expresses the deep emotional pain the speaker feels when witnessing the suffering of the young women in the city. It highlights how seeing the struggles of others can profoundly affect one's heart and emotions.
What is the significance of 'daughters of my city' in Lamentations 3:51?
The phrase 'daughters of my city' refers to the young women and families who are suffering due to the destruction around them. It emphasizes the impact of communal suffering on individual emotions.
How does Lamentations 3:51 relate to empathy?
Lamentations 3:51 illustrates the connection between what we see and how we feel, emphasizing that witnessing the struggles of others can evoke compassion and a sense of responsibility to help.
What themes are present in Lamentations 3:51?
Key themes in Lamentations 3:51 include emotional pain, suffering, empathy, community, lamentation, and the responsibility to care for those in 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.
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.