Lamentations

Lamentations, written by the prophet Jeremiah around 586 BC to the people of Judah and Jerusalem, reflects on the period after the fall of Jerusalem to the Babylonians. Jeremiah laments Jerusalem's destruction and the peoples' death, torture, and imprisonment. Jeremiah reflects on themes of sin, God's judgment, and the consequences of disobeying God. Jeremiah also writes of hope through God's promised love and faithfulness.

Chapter 1

Jeremiah laments the desolation of Jerusalem. He recalls when Jerusalem was a great nation but is now deserted and enslaved. The people are exiled, hungry, suffering, and betrayed by former allies. Jeremiah describes how the people's sins led to the city's downfall. He acknowledges that the LORD's judgment was righteous but severe. Jeremiah calls on the LORD to observe the city's affliction and to bring justice upon their enemies.

Chapter 2

Jeremiah describes the destruction of Jerusalem under God's wrath and anger. Jeremiah says that Jerusalem's festivals and Sabbaths are forgotten, and both king and priest are spurned (rejected). The city’s walls, gates, and leaders lie in ruin, while its inhabitants are exiled and left without God's guidance. The people, elders, and young women are in deep mourning, and children faint from hunger. Jeremiah denounces the false prophets for not calling out sin, misleading, and leaving Jerusalem vulnerable. The enemies mock and rejoice over the city's downfall, fulfilling God's long-decreed plans. Jeremiah pleas to God for His mercy.

Chapter 3

Jeremiah describes seeing and feeling God’s wrath. Jeremiah describes his prayers being ignored and becoming the laughingstock of the people. He reflects on the bitterness and loss of peace but finds hope in God's unfailing compassion and faithfulness. Through his suffering, Jeremiah proclaims that "The LORD is [his] portion; therefore [he] will wait for him," as an acknowledgment that suffering is not permanent and God’s enduring love. He urges people to reflect on their sins, repent, and return returning to the LORD. Jeremiah asks God to instill justice on his enemies for what they have done to him.

Chapter 4

Jeremiah laments the once-precious people of Jerusalem and how they are now considered worthless. Children suffer from thirst and hunger, while those who once lived in luxury are destitute. The city's destruction is described as more severe than that of Sodom. The famine has turned compassionate women to eating their children. God's wrath consumed Jerusalem, fulfilling prophecies due to the sins of corrupt prophets and priests. Despite the destruction, Jeremiah prophesies that Jerusalem’s punishment will end, and Edom will face retribution for its sins.

Chapter 5

Jeremiah asks God to remember the suffering and disgrace of the people. Their inheritance is owned by strangers, and they have become orphans and widows. Even water and wood are scarce and costly. They are pursued by enemies and forced into submission. Jeremiah describes how slaves rule over them and they have to risk their lives for bread. He describes how the people are hungry, violence is rampant, women are violated, and leaders are humiliated. Despite their sins, Jeremiah asks God why He has forgotten them and begs for restoration, unless God has rejected them in His anger.