Old Testament
Lamentations 5:16
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Lamentations 5:16, the speaker reflects on the loss of dignity and status, symbolized by a fallen crown.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Jeremiah
- Written
- Around 586 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and lament
- Original Audience
- Judah after the fall of Jerusalem
The crown has fallen from our head. How terrible for us — we have sinned!
The crown is fallen from our head: woe unto us, that we have sinned!
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Lamentations 5:16, the speaker reflects on the loss of dignity and status, symbolized by a fallen crown. This imagery conveys deep sorrow and regret over the consequences of sin. The verse expresses a collective acknowledgment of wrongdoing, highlighting the connection between their suffering and their actions. The lamentation serves as a reminder of the gravity of sin and its impact on the community. The phrase 'woe unto us' emphasizes the seriousness of their situation, indicating that their misdeeds have led to their downfall. This verse encapsulates the themes of loss, repentance, and the need for restoration, urging the people to recognize their faults and seek forgiveness. It serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences of turning away from God and the importance of humility in the face of adversity.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Lamentations 5:16 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our own lives and recognize the areas where we may have strayed from our values or beliefs. It reminds us of the importance of humility and the need to seek forgiveness, both from God and from those we may have wronged. By acknowledging our mistakes, we can begin the process of healing and restoration.
Curated for this public verse page. Lamentations Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Lamentations 5:16 mean?
Lamentations 5:16 expresses deep sorrow over the loss of dignity and status due to sin. The fallen crown symbolizes the consequences of their actions, highlighting the need for repentance and acknowledgment of wrongdoing.
What is the significance of the phrase 'the crown has fallen' in Lamentations 5:16?
The phrase 'the crown has fallen' signifies a loss of honor and authority, reflecting the dire consequences of sin. It illustrates the community's collective grief and the realization that their suffering is a result of their misdeeds.
How does Lamentations 5:16 relate to the themes of repentance?
Lamentations 5:16 emphasizes the need for repentance by acknowledging wrongdoing and the consequences of sin. It highlights the importance of humility and seeking forgiveness to restore dignity and community.
What can we learn from Lamentations 5:16?
From Lamentations 5:16, we learn the importance of recognizing our faults and the need for humility. It encourages us to seek forgiveness and understand the serious consequences of 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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