Old Testament
Lamentations 5:21
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Lamentations 5:21, the speaker is pleading with God to restore their relationship with Him.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Jeremiah
- Written
- Around 586 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and lament
- Original Audience
- Judah after the fall of Jerusalem
Bring us back to you, O LORD, and we will return; renew our days as they were in the past.
Turn thou us unto thee, O LORD, and we shall be turned; renew our days as of old.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Lamentations 5:21, the speaker is pleading with God to restore their relationship with Him. The phrase "bring us back to you" indicates a desire for spiritual renewal and a return to a time when things were better. The people acknowledge their need for God's guidance and intervention, recognizing that true restoration comes from Him. The mention of renewing their days as they were in the past reflects a longing for the joy and peace they once experienced. This verse captures the essence of repentance, where the people are not just asking for physical restoration but also for a revival of their faith and connection with God. It highlights the importance of turning back to God in times of distress and seeking His mercy to heal their brokenness and restore their former glory. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of the hope that exists in returning to God and the transformative power of His grace.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Lamentations 5:21 to your life
In our lives, we can apply this verse by recognizing our need for God’s guidance and actively seeking to reconnect with Him. When we feel distant or lost, we should turn to prayer and ask for His help to restore our faith and joy, trusting in His ability to renew our spirits.
Curated for this public verse page. Lamentations Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Lamentations 5:21 mean?
Lamentations 5:21 expresses a plea for God to restore the people's relationship with Him. It reflects a desire for spiritual renewal and a return to better times, acknowledging the need for God's guidance and mercy.
What is the meaning of 'bring us back to you' in Lamentations 5:21?
'Bring us back to you' signifies a longing for reconciliation with God. It indicates a recognition of the need for divine intervention to restore faith and joy in their lives.
How can I apply Lamentations 5:21 in my life?
You can apply Lamentations 5:21 by recognizing your need for God's guidance when feeling lost. Turn to prayer and ask for His help to restore your faith and joy, trusting in His ability to renew your spirit.
What themes are present in Lamentations 5:21?
The themes in Lamentations 5:21 include repentance, restoration, divine mercy, hope, and spiritual renewal. These themes emphasize the importance of returning to God 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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