Lamentations 5:1 - Meaning and Interpretation

Bible Verse: Lamentations 5:1

"Remember, O Lord, what is come upon us: consider, and behold our reproach."

This poignant plea encapsulates the cries of a devastated people pleading for divine remembrance and compassion amidst their suffering. The verse serves as a powerful reminder of the intense emotional and spiritual turmoil experienced by the Israelites after the fall of Jerusalem. Interpretations by renowned public domain commentators offer profound insights into the thematic weight and implications of this verse.

Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry:

  Matthew Henry emphasizes the importance of the appeal to God’s memory. He highlights that the plea reflects a deep sense of desperation from the exiled people who feel abandoned and humiliated. Henry interprets this request as one not only for acknowledgment of their suffering but also for a renewed hope that God will act on their behalf.

• Albert Barnes:

  Albert Barnes notes that this verse signifies a universal call for divine intervention and justice. He points out that the reference to 'reproach' serves as an acknowledgment of the shame and disgrace experienced by the people. Barnes suggests that this appeal is grounded in the covenant relationship between God and Israel, reminding God of His promises even amid great turmoil.

• Adam Clarke:

  Adam Clarke focuses on the emotional dimension of this verse, interpreting it as an outpouring of the people’s anguish. He discusses the significance of 'remembering' in a biblical context, where such calls express not just a desire for God to recall events but a longing for His active presence in their lives. Clarke asserts that this verse resonates with every generation that experiences suffering, making it a timeless cry for help.

Bible Cross-References

Lamentations 5:1 connects deeply with several other scriptural passages that highlight themes of suffering, divine intervention, and remembrance. Here are notable cross-references:

• Psalms 74:10-11: "How long, O God, is the adversary to reproach? Is the enemy to revile your name forever?" This lament also calls for divine recognition of suffering.
• Psalms 102:1-2: "Hear my prayer, O Lord, and let my cry come to you. Do not hide your face from me in the day of my distress." A cry for God's attention in times of trouble.
• Isaiah 63:15: "Look down from heaven and see... Where are your zeal and your might?" This verse expresses a longing for God's active presence.
• Jeremiah 14:7: "Though our iniquities testify against us, act, O Lord, for your name's sake." A similar plea recognizing sin but seeking mercy.
• 2 Chronicles 6:29-30: A prayer by Solomon asking God to hear the prayers of His people, reflecting the desire for divine listening and intervention.
• Micah 7:9: "I will bear the indignation of the Lord because I have sinned against him, until he pleads my cause." Expressing suffering and a hope for divine defense.
• Hebrews 4:16: "Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace..." Encouraging believers to come to God in times of need.

Thematic Connections

The plea in Lamentations 5:1 connects various themes found throughout the Bible:

• Suffering and Repentance: Numerous passages call for remembrance of God amidst trials, showcasing human vulnerability and the call for divine aid.
• God's Fidelity: The emphasis on remembrance mirrors the scriptural theme of God's faithfulness to His people, even in their unfaithfulness.
• Communal Lament: This cry ties into the broader narrative of communal suffering found in the books of the Prophets and the Psalms.

Understanding Through Cross-References

Finding cross-references in the Bible is integral for deeper understanding and interpretation. Tools for Bible cross-referencing, such as concordances and guides, assist in uncovering inter-Biblical dialogues that enrich one's study:

• Bible Concordance: A valuable resource for identifying words and phrases across scripture.
• Bible Cross-Reference Guide: Helpful for locating scripture that connects to specific themes or topics.
• Cross-Reference Bible Study: Engage with scripture contextually for a holistic understanding of biblical themes.

Conclusion

The verse Lamentations 5:1 is not merely a lament but a deeply theological reflection on human suffering and the enduring hope for divine remembrance. By engaging with public domain commentaries and cross-referencing biblical texts, one can gain a profound understanding of this verse and its relevance across both Testaments.