Old Testament
Lamentations 4:20
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
The breath of our nostrils, the anointed of the LORD, was caught in their traps, of whom we said, 'Under his shadow we shall live among the heathen.'
Compare translations
The breath of our nostrils, the anointed of the LORD, was taken in their pits, of whom we said, Under his shadow we shall live among the heathen.
What Lamentations 4:20 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Lamentations 4:20, the verse reflects deep sorrow and despair over the loss of a leader, referred to as 'the breath of our nostrils' and 'the anointed of the LORD.' This leader was seen as a protector and source of hope for the people, who believed they could find safety and comfort under his guidance, likened to living in his shadow. However, this leader has been captured, symbolizing a significant loss for the community. The mention of 'traps' and 'pits' indicates the treachery and danger posed by their enemies, highlighting the vulnerability of the people. The verse encapsulates the feelings of abandonment and fear as they face the reality of their situation without their leader, emphasizing the importance of divine protection and guidance in times of crisis.
How to apply Lamentations 4:20 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of strong leadership and the impact it has on a community. In times of uncertainty, we should seek guidance and support from trusted leaders and remain aware of the dangers that can arise from betrayal or loss. Trusting in God’s protection is essential.
Curated for this public verse page. Lamentations Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Ruth's story: Three Widows (Ruth 1:1–5)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Ruth
Photo: Zeev Stein / PikiWiki Israel, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.5. Source. Location: Tel Beer Sheva National Park, Israel. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Beersheba
Where Abraham and Isaac dug wells and worshiped the LORD, at the southern edge of the land.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Lamentations 4:20
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Lamentations 4:20
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Lamentations
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Jeremiah
- Written
- Around 586 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and lament
- Original Audience
- Judah after the fall of Jerusalem
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Lamentations 4:20 mean?
Lamentations 4:20 expresses sorrow over the loss of a leader, referred to as 'the breath of our nostrils' and 'the anointed of the LORD.' This leader was seen as a source of hope and protection, and their capture signifies a deep sense of vulnerability and despair for the people.
What is the significance of 'the breath of our nostrils' in Lamentations 4:20?
In Lamentations 4:20, 'the breath of our nostrils' symbolizes the vital importance of the leader to the community. This phrase highlights how essential this leader was for the people's survival and well-being, emphasizing their deep emotional connection.
What does 'under his shadow we shall live among the heathen' mean in Lamentations 4:20?
The phrase 'under his shadow we shall live among the heathen' in Lamentations 4:20 suggests that the people felt safe and protected under their leader's guidance, even in a hostile environment. It reflects their hope for security and comfort amidst external threats.
What themes are present in Lamentations 4:20?
Lamentations 4:20 encompasses themes of loss of leadership, divine protection, vulnerability, despair, and community suffering. It highlights the emotional turmoil faced by the people due to the absence of their leader.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.