Lamentations 2:17 - Summary of Meaning and Interpretation

Lamentations 2:17 states, "The Lord hath done that which he had devised; he hath fulfilled his word that he had commanded in the days of old: he hath thrown down, and hath not pitied: and he hath caused thine enemy to rejoice over thee, he hath set up the horn of thine adversaries." This verse reflects the profound sorrow and desolation faced by Jerusalem as a consequence of sin and disobedience to God. The verse emphasizes the fulfillment of God's decrees, showcasing His sovereignty and righteous judgment.

Interpretation

The message of Lamentations 2:17 can be interpreted through various lenses, as noted by prominent public domain commentaries:

• Matthew Henry's Commentary

  Matthew Henry notes that this verse highlights God's faithfulness to execute His judgments as foretold. The phrase "hath done that which he had devised" reflects God's sovereign will, suggesting that the calamities suffered were not arbitrary but rather a direct outcome of Israel's persistent rebellion against divine commandments. Henry emphasizes that God's actions are just and are meant to serve as a reminder for believers to adhere to His ways.

• Albert Barnes' Notes on the Bible

  Albert Barnes expounds on the phrase "he hath thrown down, and hath not pitied," indicating that God's lack of pity during judgment is a serious warning to those who ignore divine precepts. Barnes connects this suffering to God's long-standing promise to discipline His people for their sins, emphasizing the reality that such suffering is rooted in divine justice rather than caprice.

• Adam Clarke's Commentary

  Adam Clarke elaborates on the overall context of lamentation, pointing out that the joy of the adversaries signifies a deep national humiliation for Israel. Clarke expounds on the term "the horn of thine adversaries," indicating their growing strength and dominance as a result of Israel's spiritual fall. Clarke notes that this serves as a cautionary tale regarding the consequences of straying from faithfulness to God's covenant.

Cross References

This verse connects deeply with several other biblical texts, which help to shed light on its meaning:

• Deuteronomy 28:15-68 - A passage outlining the curses for disobedience, paralleling the consequences emphasized in Lamentations.
• Isaiah 47:6 - Describes God’s judgment against His people due to their actions, similar to the themes in Lamentations.
• Jeremiah 25:9 - God's promise of judgment through foreign nations, reflecting the lamentation of Jerusalem's fall.
• Ezekiel 39:23 - Highlights God's purpose in allowing desolation, showing how His plans are fulfilled.
• Psalm 137:7-9 - A reflection on the Babylonian captivity, which serves as the emotional backdrop for Lamentations.
• Lamentations 3:33 - Expresses God’s compassion in the midst of judgment, presenting a more nuanced view of His character.
• Micah 3:12 - Addresses the consequences of sin upon Jerusalem, echoing the sentiments of Lamentations.

Thematic Exploration

The themes presented in Lamentations 2:17 resonate through other parts of Scripture, establishing a framework for understanding God’s interaction with humanity:

• God’s Sovereignty: This theme reflects the overarching control God has over the affairs of nations and the fulfillment of His decrees.
• The Justice of God: Lamentations illustrates God upholding moral order, whereby the consequences of sin become apparent.
• Human Suffering: The emotional weight of Lamentations gives voice to the pain that results from both personal and national failures.

Conclusion

Lamentations 2:17 serves as a sobering reminder of God's justice and faithfulness in the fulfillment of His word. By examining its connections with other scriptures and themes, believers are encouraged to remain vigilant in their faith and obedience, recognizing the seriousness of disregarding God's commands. Through cross-referencing and thematic exploration, one can gain a richer understanding of this poignant verse, ensuring its meanings resonate deeply in the hearts of its readers.