Old Testament
Lamentations 3:64
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Lamentations 3:64, the speaker is calling on God to bring justice against those who have caused suffering.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Jeremiah
- Written
- Around 586 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and lament
- Original Audience
- Judah after the fall of Jerusalem
Pay them back, LORD, for what their hands have done.
Render unto them a recompence, O LORD, according to the work of their hands.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Lamentations 3:64, the speaker is calling on God to bring justice against those who have caused suffering. The phrase 'pay them back' indicates a desire for divine retribution, asking God to respond to the wrongs done by others. This reflects a deep sense of hurt and a longing for vindication. The verse emphasizes the belief that God is the ultimate judge who sees the actions of people and will hold them accountable for their deeds. The speaker is expressing a plea for God to act in accordance with His justice, ensuring that those who have inflicted pain receive a fitting response for their actions. This verse captures the emotional turmoil of the speaker, who feels wronged and seeks comfort in the idea that God will address the injustices they have faced. It serves as a reminder of the importance of justice and the hope that God will intervene in times of distress.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Lamentations 3:64 to your life
When facing injustice or suffering, we can turn to God for comfort and justice. Instead of seeking revenge ourselves, we can trust that God sees all and will address wrongs in His timing. This encourages us to maintain faith and patience during difficult times.
Curated for this public verse page. Lamentations Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Lamentations 3:64 mean?
Lamentations 3:64 expresses a plea for God to bring justice against those who have caused suffering. The speaker is asking God to respond to the wrongs done by others, reflecting a desire for divine retribution.
What is the meaning of 'pay them back' in Lamentations 3:64?
'Pay them back' in Lamentations 3:64 indicates a call for God to enact justice on those who have inflicted harm. It shows the speaker's longing for vindication and accountability for the wrongdoers.
How does Lamentations 3:64 relate to suffering?
Lamentations 3:64 relates to suffering by expressing the pain of the speaker and their desire for God to address the injustices they have faced. It reflects a deep emotional response to wrongdoing.
What themes are present in Lamentations 3:64?
Themes in Lamentations 3:64 include divine justice, recompense, suffering, and a plea for vindication. It emphasizes accountability and hope in God's intervention during difficult times.

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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