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2LAMfrontintrozxy70# Introduction to Lamentations<br>## Part 1: General Introduction<br><br>### Outline of the Book of Lamentations<br><br>1. First lament: Yahweh and his people have abandoned Jerusalem (1:122)<br>1. Second lament: Yahweh was angry with Jerusalem and caused it to be destroyed (2:122)<br>1. Third lament (3:1-66)<br>- The people grieve (3:120)<br>- Yahweh comforts those who turn back to him (3:2139)<br>- Judah is learning to return to Yahweh (3:4054)<br>- Judah cries out to be avenged of its enemies (3:5566)<br>1. Fourth lament: The terrors of the siege of Jerusalem (4:1-4:22)<br>- The peoples sin caused Jerusalem to be punished (4:120)<br>- Their being punished satisfied Yahwehs wrath for their sin (4:2122a)<br>- Edom will be punished also (4:22b)<br>1. Fifth lament: The broken nation cries out to Yahweh (5:122)<br><br>### What is the Book of Lamentations about?<br><br>The Babylonians captured the city of Jerusalem in 586 B.C. In the Book of Lamentations, the writer grieves over Jerusalem being destroyed.<br><br>The Book of Lamentations is organized into five poems. The writer describes how God allowed Jerusalem to be destroyed because the people sinned against him. However, the writer also states that God is always loving and faithful to his people. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faith]])<br><br>### Who wrote the Book of Lamentations?<br><br>The text of Lamentations does not give the name of the author. The traditional view is that Jeremiah wrote it. The writer seems to have personally seen Jerusalem destroyed. The serious and grieving words in the Book of Jeremiah are similar to those in the Book of Lamentations.<br><br>### How should the title of this book be translated?<br><br>Translators may use the traditional title of “Lamentations.” Or they may call the book “Poems of Sadness.” If translators want to take the view that the prophet Jeremiah wrote this book, they might decide on a title such as “The Sad Sayings of Jeremiah.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])<br><br>## Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts<br><br>### Did God abandon Israel?<br><br>The author of Lamentations often speaks of God abandoning Israel. But this did not mean that God had completely given up on Israel.<br>He rejected Israel for a period of time as the special place where he would be present. However, God remained faithful to what he promised Israel in his covenant.<br><br>While it was common in the ancient Near East to think that a god might leave its city, it usually did so because it was too weak to defend the city. In Lamentations, Yahweh abandons Jerusalem because the people sinned against him, not because he was too weak to defend the city. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/falsegod]])<br><br>### What is a funeral song?<br><br>People groups commonly sing songs after someone dies or during a funeral. Depending on the culture, these songs can sound either happy or sad. The Book of Lamentations is like a sad song, called a “lament,” sung at a funeral. Some scholars think the rhythm of the laments in Hebrew makes them sound slow like a funeral procession.<br><br>## Part 3: Important Translation Issues<br><br>### What style of writing is Lamentations?<br><br>Lamentations is a collection of five poems. The Jewish exiles living in captivity in Babylon may have sung or chanted these laments. The Jews who remained in Jerusalem after the Babylonians conquered it may also have sung them. In Chapters 1, 2, and 4, each line of the poem begins with a different Hebrew letter, in the order of the Hebrew alphabet. The third chapter repeats three lines starting with the same letter of the Hebrew alphabet. The next three lines begin with next letter in the Hebrew alphabet.<br><br>### Who are the woman and the man in Lamentations?<br><br>The author uses the image of an abandoned woman and a persecuted man to represent Judah and Jerusalem. He uses this type of personification to help readers understand the pain and sorrow. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
3LAM1introcpx30# Lamentations 01 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>### Judah destroyed for her sin<br><br>Judah used to be great, but is now a slave. The temple is stripped of all its valuables. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/temple]])
4LAM11mx9ewriting-poetry0General Information:Various poetic forms are used throughout this book. (See [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
5LAM11i4kkfigs-metaphor0is now sitting all aloneThis speaks of the city of Jerusalem being empty, as if it were a woman who was sitting alone. Alternate translation: “is now empty” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
6LAM11azd1figs-personification0SheThe writer of Lamentations writes about the city of Jerusalem as if it were a woman. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
7LAM11p68ifigs-simile0like a widowThis speaks of Jerusalem as being without protection, as if it were a vulnerable widow. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
8LAM11jn93figs-metaphor0She was a princess among the nationsThis speaks of Jerusalem being honored as if it were a princess. Alternate translation: “She was like a princess among the nations” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
9LAM11k944figs-activepassive0forced into slavery“forced to become a slave.” This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “but she is now a slave” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
10LAM12hy2kfigs-personification0She weeps and wails … and her tears cover her cheeksThe author describes Jerusalem as having emotions like a human being. The city also stands for her inhabitants. Alternate translation: “Those who live in her weep and wail … and their tears cover their cheeks” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
11LAM12vm69figs-doublet0weeps and wailsThe word “wails” refers to the sounds that a person makes when they “weep” loudly. Alternate translation: “weeps loudly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
12LAM12xf4hfigs-metaphor0None of her lovers comfort her. All her friends have betrayed herThis speaks of the people groups that had been faithful to Jerusalem betraying Jerusalem, as if the people groups were Jerusalems lovers and friends. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
13LAM13wtj1figs-personification0General Information:In these verses, Jerusalem and Judah are spoken of as if they were women. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
14LAM13jc3t0After poverty and affliction“After suffering poverty and affliction”
15LAM13d5d4figs-metonymy0Judah has gone into exileHere Judah refers to its inhabitants. Alternate translation: “the people of Judah have gone into exile” or “the people of Judah have been taken into a foreign land” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
16LAM13yb38figs-personification0She lives … findsHere the kingdom of Judah is described as a woman. “She” also stands for the citizens of Judah. Alternate translation: “Her people live … they find” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
17LAM13ti2f0finds no rest“does not find rest” or “is always afraid”
18LAM13w248figs-personification0All her pursuers overtook her in her desperationThis speaks of the people of Judah being captured by their enemies as if they were a woman who was captured by those pursuing her. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
19LAM13can40All her pursuers overtook her“Everyone who was chasing her managed to capture her” or “Everyone who was hunting for her found her”
20LAM13fm5dfigs-abstractnouns0in her desperationThe word “desperation” can be expressed as an adjective. Alternate translation: “when she was desperate” or “when she was distressed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
21LAM14i8dbfigs-personification0General Information:The city of Zion is spoken of as if it were a woman. In Lamentations, Zion and Jerusalem are names used to refer to the same city. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
22LAM14h3bmfigs-personification0The roads of Zion mournThe author speaks of the roads that lead to Zion mourning as if they were human beings. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
23LAM14x7250the appointed feasts“the feasts that God told them to celebrate”
24LAM14ih8ffigs-personification0All her gates are desolateThe word “her” refers to Zion. Alternate translation: “All of Zions gates are empty” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
25LAM14bv2dfigs-personification0Her virgins are sorrowful and she herself is in complete distressHere the people of Zion being distressed are spoken of as if they were a woman in distress. Alternate translation: “Zions virgins are sorrowful, and its people despairing” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
26LAM15m4mr0Her adversaries have become her master; her enemies prosper“Zions adversaries rule over it; its enemies prosper”
27LAM15h8q8figs-personification0Yahweh has afflicted her for her many sinsThis speaks of Yahweh punishing the people of Zion for their sins as if they were a woman that Yahweh was punishing. Alternate translation: “Yahweh has afflicted her people because of the sins they have committed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
28LAM15h9dxfigs-abstractnouns0Her little children go into captivity to her adversaryThe word “captivity” can be expressed as a verb. Alternate translation: “Her enemy captures her little children” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
29LAM16e22rfigs-personification0General Information:The city of Zion is spoken of as if it were a woman. In Lamentations, Zion and Jerusalem are names used to refer to the same city. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
30LAM16vlv60Beauty has left the daughter of ZionThis speaks of everything beautiful in Zion being destroyed as if “beauty” were a person that left Zion. Alternate translation: “Everything that was beautiful about the daughter of Zion is destroyed”
31LAM16i7tefigs-personification0daughter of ZionThis is a poetic name for Jerusalem, which is spoken of here as if it were a woman. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
32LAM16imv9figs-simile0Her princes have become like deer that cannot find pastureThis speaks of Zions princes having nothing to eat like deer that cannot find grass to eat. Alternate translation: “Her princes are starving, they are like deer that cannot find grass to eat” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
33LAM16q9zi0deerA deer is a medium-sized, grass-eating animal that is often hunted by humans for food. It is also a beautiful animal to look at.
34LAM16gx4l0they go without strength before“they are not strong enough to run away from” or “they are very weak before”
35LAM16m8wr0their pursuer“the person that is pursuing them”
36LAM17yp420In the days of her affliction and her homelessness“During the time of her affliction and her homelessness”
37LAM17g8bbfigs-metonymy0Jerusalem will call to mindHere “Jerusalem” refers to the people who live there. The phrase “call to mind” is an idiom. Alternate translation: “the people of Jerusalem will remember” or “Jerusalem will remember” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
38LAM17p1pa0precious treasuresThis refers to their valuable possessions.
39LAM17kyv3figs-explicit0in former days“in the past.” This refers to the time before the people of Jerusalem were captured. Alternate translation: “before this disaster happened” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
40LAM17a6c2figs-metonymy0When her people fell into the hand of the adversaryHere the word “hand” refers the control of the enemy army. Alternate translation: “When the adversary conquered and captured her people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
41LAM17m6up0saw her and laughed at her destructionThis means that they were glad and mocked Jerusalem when it was destroyed.
42LAM17ck49figs-abstractnouns0at her destructionThis word “destruction” can be expressed as a verb. Alternate translation: “because she was destroyed” or “while they destroyed her” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
43LAM18z8dzfigs-personification0General Information:The city of Jerusalem is spoken of as if it were a woman. In Lamentations, Zion and Jerusalem are names used to refer to the same city. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
44LAM18h4x9figs-simile0Jerusalem sinned greatly, therefore, she has become scorned as something that is filthyThis speaks of Jerusalem being scorned in the same way that a woman is scorned when she is unclean. According to the law of Moses, a woman was considered unclean during her monthly bleeding. Alternate translation: “Jerusalems sins have made her filthy and unclean, and therefore she was unacceptable before God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
45LAM18ib81figs-personification0Jerusalem sinned greatlyThis describes Jerusalem as a woman who sinned, while it also stands for the inhabitants of Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “The people of Jerusalem sinned greatly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
46LAM18jpl7figs-activepassive0has become scornedThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “has become an object of scorn” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
47LAM18lwa4figs-personification0her nakedness“her naked.” Jerusalem is described as a woman whose private parts have been exposed to everyone to shame her. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
48LAM19tsa8figs-metaphor0She has become unclean beneath her skirtsAccording to the l of Moses, a woman was considered unclean during her monthly bleeding. This speaks of Jerusalem being unclean, as if it were a menstruating woman. Alternate translation: “Jerusalem has become unclean, as when a woman is unclean beneath her skirts” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
49LAM19z2lmfigs-metaphor0uncleanA person who God considers to be spiritually unacceptable or defiled is spoken of as if the person were physically unclean. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
50LAM19r5x9figs-idiom0Her fall was terribleThe phrase “her fall” is an idiom. Alternate translation: “Her downfall was astonishing” or “Those who saw her destruction were surprised” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
51LAM19h7erfigs-personification0Look at my affliction, YahwehThis could mean that: (1) the author of Lamentations now talks directly to Yahweh or (2) Jerusalem is described as talking to Yahweh like a person. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
52LAM19fv360Look at“Pay attention to”
53LAM19bx6pfigs-explicit0the enemy has become too greatThis means that they enemy army has become too large and powerful and has defeated Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “the enemy army has defeated me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
54LAM110mu6hfigs-idiom0has put his hand onThis is an idiom. Alternate translation: “has taken possession of” or “has stolen” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
55LAM110mp1s0precious treasuresThis refers to their valuable possessions.
56LAM110ban1figs-personification0She has seenThe word “She” refers to Jerusalem. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
57LAM110qt1mfigs-synecdoche0the nationsThis refers to people from various nations, not the entire population of those nations. Alternate translation: “people from the nations” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
58LAM110u91b0you had commandedThe word “you” refers to Yahweh.
59LAM111ybg4figs-personification0her peopleThe word “her” refers to Jerusalem which is described as if it were a woman. Alternate translation: “her inhabitants” or “the people of the city” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
60LAM111sr71figs-synecdoche0breadThis refers to food in general. Alternate translation: “food” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
61LAM111q7bpfigs-explicit0They have given their precious treasures for foodThis means they traded their wealth and their valuables in exchange for food. Alternate translation: “They have traded their precious treasures in exchange for food” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
62LAM111kx7c0precious treasuresThis refers to their valuable possessions.
63LAM111u7330to restore their lives“to save their lives” or “to restore their strength”
64LAM111ae41figs-personification0Look, Yahweh, and consider meHere Jerusalem speaks directly to Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
65LAM112lv2dfigs-rquestion0Is it nothing to you, all you who pass by?This rhetorical question is an accusation aganist the people who walk past Jerusalem and do not care about its well-being. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “All you who pass by should care more for my affliction!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
66LAM112hb8jfigs-personification0Is it nothing to youHere Jerusalem continues to speak, but now to people who pass by instead of to Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
67LAM112mb6zfigs-doublet0Look and seeThese words share similar meanings. Together they invite the reader to understand by seeing that no one has suffered so much. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
68LAM112gua5figs-activepassive0the sorrow that is being inflicted on meThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the sorrow that Yahweh is inflicting upon me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
69LAM112xgh8figs-idiom0on the day of his fierce angerHere the word “day” is used as an idiom. Alternate translation: “when he was fiercely angry” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
70LAM113vg27figs-personification0General Information:In this section Jerusalem is portrayed as a woman speaking about herself. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
71LAM113x6apfigs-idiom0on highThis is an idiom. Alternate translation: “heaven” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
72LAM113y8l7figs-personification0he has sent fire into my bones, and it has conquered themThis speaks of Yahweh punishing Jerusalem as if Jerusalem were a person that Yahweh were punishing with fire. Alternate translation: “he has sent a painful punishment into my inner being, and it has destroyed me” or “he has sent a destructive punishment into the middle of Jerusalem, and it has destroyed the city” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
73LAM113d689figs-metonymy0has sent fire into my bonesHere “fire” represents pain and “bones” represents ones inner being. Alternate translation: “has sent pain into my bones” or “has sent pain into my inner being” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
74LAM113pt8bfigs-personification0He has spread a net for my feetThis speaks of Yahweh punishing Jerusalem as if Jerusalem were a person that Yahweh had set a trap for. This refers to a type of trap usually used to catch an animal. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
75LAM113y57ifigs-idiom0turned me backThis is an idiom. Alternate translation: “prevented my from walking any further” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
76LAM114f1g6figs-metaphor0The yoke of my transgressions … They are knit together and placed upon my neckThis speaks of the people of Jerusalems sins as if they were a yoke bearing a heavy burden that Yahweh had placed on their necks. Also, this can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “My transgressions are like a yoke that he has bound together with his hands and placed upon my neck” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
77LAM114m9tafigs-metonymy0given me over into their hands“given me over into the hands of my enemies.” Here their enemies control is represented by their “hands.” Alternate translation: “given my over to the control of my enemies” or “let my enemies defeat me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
78LAM114rm8kfigs-idiom0I am not able to standThis is an idiom. Alternate translation: “I cannot resist them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
79LAM115b3xhfigs-personification0General Information:In this section Jerusalem is portrayed as a woman speaking about herself. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
80LAM115ruu70mighty men“strongest soldiers”
81LAM115ct6zfigs-metaphor0an assemblyHere the enemy army attacking Jerusalem is spoken of as if it were a meeting of people who have come together in order to accuse and condemn someone. Alternate translation: “a great army” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
82LAM115zrt40to crush my vigorous menThis speaks of the enemy army defeating the soldiers of Jerusalem as if they crushed them. Alternate translation: “to defeat my vigorous men”
83LAM115yz3y0vigorous menThis refers to men at the strongest time of their lives.
84LAM115t625figs-metaphor0The Lord has trampled … in the winepressHere the judgment of God is described as if Jerusalem were grapes on which he had trampled in order to squeeze out the juice. Alternate translation: “It is as though the Lord has trampled upon the virgin daughter of Judah in a winepress” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
85LAM115w82efigs-metaphor0the virgin daughter of JudahThis is a poetic name for Jerusalem, which is spoken of here as if it were a woman. The word “virgin” suggests that this woman is pure. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
86LAM116ze56figs-personification0General Information:In this section Jerusalem is portrayed as a woman speaking about herself. In Lamentations, Zion and Jerusalem are names used to refer to the same city. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
87LAM116p25mfigs-metaphor0for a comforter is far from me, one who restores my lifeThis speaks of Jerusalem having no one to comfort her as if she did have a comforter, but that he was far away. The word “comforter” can be expressed as a verb. Alternate translation: “for there is no one to comfort me and restore my life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
88LAM116h5c90restores my life“revives me”
89LAM117ua88figs-personification0Zion has spread her hands wideHere Jerusalem no longer speaks about herself; instead the author describes Jerusalem. He speaks of Zion as if it were a woman that lifts up her hands to ask for help. Alternate translation: “Zion has reached out for help” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
90LAM117jc3i0those around Jacob“the people around Jacob” or “the nations surrounding Jacob”
91LAM117f1emfigs-metonymy0around Jacob should be his adversariesHere “Jacob” refers to his descendants, that is Israel. Alternate translation: “around Jacobs descendants should be their adversaries” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
92LAM117t8w2figs-metaphor0uncleanA person who God considers spiritually unacceptable or defiled is spoken of as if the person were physically unclean. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
93LAM118cz8zfigs-personification0General Information:In this section Jerusalem is portrayed as a woman speaking about herself. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
94LAM118l7wg0Yahweh is righteousThis implies that what Yahweh has done, he has done because he is righteous. Alternate translation: “Yahweh has acted out of his righteousness” or “What Yahweh has done is right”
95LAM118f15ffigs-abstractnouns0see my sorrowThe word “sorrow” can be expressed as a “sad.” Alternate translation: “see how extremely sad I am” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
96LAM118lnt9figs-synecdoche0My virgins and my vigorous men have gone into captivityHere all of the people of Jerusalem who were taken into captivity are represented by the “virgins” and the “vigorous men” who were taken. Alternate translation: “Many of my people, including my virgins and vigorous men, have gone into captivity” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
97LAM118ay2g0vigorous menThis refers to men at the strongest time of their lives. See how you translated this in [Lamentations 1:15](../01/15.md).
98LAM119ffv50I called for my friends“I called for my friends to help me” or “I called for my allies to help me”
99LAM119i88cfigs-explicit0they were treacherous toward meThis means that they betrayed him. Alternate translation: “they betrayed me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
100LAM119i9bk0to restore their lives“to save their lives” or “to restore their strength”
101LAM120tsg9figs-personification0General Information:In this section Jerusalem is portrayed as a woman speaking about herself. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
102LAM120le5pfigs-personification0Look, Yahweh, for I am in distressJerusalem continues to talk about herself as if she were a woman, but now talks directly to Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
103LAM120csk1figs-metaphor0my stomach churnsThe word “churn” means to move around violently, normally in a circular rotation. This does not mean the stomach is literally churning, but describes how the woman, representing Jerusalem, feels. Alternate translation: “my insides ache” or “my stomach hurts” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
104LAM120wyf3figs-synecdoche0my heart is disturbed within meHere the woman, representing Jerusalem, refers to her “heart” to emphasize her feelings. Alternate translation: “my heart is broken” or “I am extremely sad” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
105LAM120xmz9figs-metonymy0the sword bereaves a motherThe “sword” represents the enemy. Alternate translation: “the enemy kills a mothers children” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
106LAM120vx25figs-explicit0inside the house there is only deathThis could mean: (1) “inside the house, everyone is dying” or (2) “and inside the house the dead people are kept” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
107LAM121qm9mfigs-personification0General Information:In this section Jerusalem is portrayed as a woman speaking about herself. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
108LAM121n3nafigs-personification0They have heard my groaning“People have heard my groaning.” Jerusalem continues to speak as if she were a woman. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
109LAM121r2sj0you have done itHere the word “you” refers to Yahweh.
110LAM121qe7hfigs-idiom0You have brought the day you promisedThe phrase “the day” is an idiom that refers to a specific event happening. Alternate translation: “You have done what you have promised” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
111LAM121cir1figs-explicit0now let them become like meThis is a request for Jerusalems enemies to suffer as the people of Jerusalem have. Alternate translation: “now let them suffer like me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
112LAM122qsw5figs-idiom0Let all their wickedness come before youThis is a request for Yahweh to judge Jerusalems enemies for their wickedness. The phrase “come before you” is an idiom. Alternate translation: “Pay attention to all of the wickedness they have committed” or “Judge them for all of their wickedness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
113LAM122j42rfigs-explicit0deal with them as you have dealt with meThis is a request for Yahweh to punish Jerusalems enemies as he punished the people of Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “punish them as you have punished me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
114LAM122e4g5figs-synecdoche0my heart is faintHere the “heart” represents the whole person. Alternate translation: “I am faint” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
115LAM2introw57v0# Lamentations 02 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>God has become Judahs enemy. He is determined to destroy them.
116LAM21r7dkwriting-poetry0General Information:A new poem begins. The writer of Lamentations uses many different ways to express that the people of Israel have lost Gods favor. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
117LAM21gee6figs-metaphor0The Lord has covered the daughter of Zion under the cloud of his angerThis speaks of the Lords anger against Jerusalem (Zion) as if it were a dark cloud. This could mean: (1) God is threatening to harm the people of Jerusalem or (2) God has already harmed the people. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
118LAM21ddb5figs-personification0the daughter of ZionThis is a poetic name for Jerusalem, which is spoken of here as if it were a woman. Translate as you did in [Lamentations 1:6](../01/06.md).(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
119LAM21qu7xfigs-metaphor0He has thrown the splendor of Israel down from heaven to earthThe phrase “the splendor of Israel” refers to Jerusalem. This passage speaks of the people of Jerusalem losing favor with the Lord as if he threw them out of his presence. The phrase “from heaven to earth” is a great distance used to represent how much they lost favor with the Lord. Alternate translation: “Jerusalem, the splendor of Israel, has lost all favor with the Lord” or “Jerusalem has lost all favor with the Lord” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
120LAM21xfe7figs-metaphor0He has not remembered his footstoolThis is a reference to the Lord having considered Jerusalem his “footstool” in the past, which symbolized that he had authority over them and that they were submissive to him. This speaks of the Lord disregarding Jerusalem as his footstool as if he did not remember them. Alternate translation: “He disregarded Jerusalem as his footstool” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
121LAM21l7v9figs-metaphor0not rememberedThis speaks of the Lord not paying attention to Jerusalem as if he did not remember them. Alternate translation: “disregarded” or “paid no attention to” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
122LAM21lqv1figs-idiom0on the day of his angerHere “day” is used as an idiom that refers to a general period of time. Alternate translation: “at the time when he displays his anger” or “at the time he acts in his anger” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
123LAM22a52bfigs-personification0the daughter of JudahThis is a poetic name for Jerusalem, which is spoken of here as if it were a woman. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
124LAM22a6zufigs-idiom0the days of his angerHere “day” is used as an idiom that refers to a general period of time. Alternate translation: “the time of his anger” or “the time of his anger” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
125LAM22gz9bfigs-metaphor0swallowed upThis speaks of the Lord completely destroying the towns as if he were an animal who ate them. Alternate translation: “completely destroyed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
126LAM22v8mhfigs-metonymy0all the towns of JacobHere “the towns of Jacob” refers to the towns where his descendants lived. Alternate translation: “all the towns of Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
127LAM22rv9k0the fortified cities of the daughter of JudahThis could mean: (1) the fortified cities throughout Judah or (2) the fortified walls of Jerusalem.
128LAM23mg130General Information:The author continues the use of metaphors to express how the Lord opposed Judah.
129LAM23ga1gfigs-metaphor0he has cut off every horn of IsraelThis speaks of the Lord taking away Israels strength as if he were cutting off its horns. The word “horn” refers to an animal horn, not a musical instrument. Alternate translation: “he has taken away all of Israels strength” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
130LAM23liy3figs-metonymy0withdrawn his right hand from before the enemyHere the Lords protection is represented by his “right hand.” Alternate translation: “stopped protecting us from our enemies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
131LAM23cni20He has burned up Jacob like a blazing fire that devours everything around itThis speaks of how the Lord has destroyed Jacob as if a fire has completely burned it. Alternate translation: “He has destroyed Jacob like a blazing fire destroys everything”
132LAM23rkj3figs-metonymy0JacobHere “Jacob” refers to the places where his descendants lived. Alternate translation: “Israel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
133LAM24cd29figs-simile0Like an enemy he has bent his bow toward us, with his right is ready to shootA soldier has to bend his bow in order to shoot an arrow from it. This speaks of the Lord preparing to attack Israel as if he were an enemy about to shoot them with a bow and arrow. Alternate translation: “He has prepared to kill us, like an enemy who has made his bow ready to shoot us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
134LAM24x4plfigs-personification0in the tent of the daughter of ZionThe “daughter of Zion” is a poetic name for Jerusalem, which is spoken of here as if it were a woman. The phrase “tent of the daughter of Zion” speaks of Jerusalem as a “tent” emphasizing that it is the home of those who live there. Alternate translation: “who live in Jerusalem” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
135LAM24p4pwfigs-metaphor0he has poured out his wrath like fireThis speaks of the Lords wrath as if it were a liquid that he were pouring out on the people. His wrath is also compared to a “fire” to emphasize how destructive it is. Alternate translation: “in his anger he has destroyed everything like a blazing fire” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
136LAM25zz9ufigs-metaphor0swallowed upThis speaks of the Lord completely destroying Israel as if he were animal who ate them. See how you translated this in [Lamentations 2:2](../02/02.md). Alternate translation: “completely destroyed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
137LAM25m29z0her palaces … her strongholdsIsrael is spoken of as if it were female.
138LAM25l83lfigs-abstractnouns0He has increased mourning and lamentation within the daughter of JudahThe words “mourning” and “lamentation” can be expressed as verbs. Alternate translation: “He has caused more and more people within the daughter of Judah to mourn and lament” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
139LAM25n1vhfigs-personification0daughter of JudahThis is a poetic name for Jerusalem, which is spoken of here as if it were a woman. Alternate translation: “Judah” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
140LAM26erj2figs-simile0He has attacked his tabernacle like a garden hutThis speaks of the tabernacle being easily destroyed, as if it were a garden hut. The Lord caused Israels enemies to destroy it. He did not destroy it himself. Alternate translation: “He has caused their enemies to attack his tabernacle as easily as if it were a garden hut” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
141LAM26w3hh0a garden huta very small building for holding farming tools or for sheltering someone who is guarding a garden
142LAM26tg96figs-metonymy0He has destroyed the place of the solemn assemblyThe Lord caused Israels enemies to destroy it. He did not destroy it himself. Alternate translation: “He has caused the place of the solemn assembly to be destroyed” or “He has caused their enemies to destroy the place of the solemn assembly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
143LAM26zkt2figs-activepassive0caused both solemn assembly and Sabbath to be forgotten in ZionThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “caused the people in Zion to forget both solemn assembly and Sabbath” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
144LAM26y8if0in the indignation of his anger“because he was extremely angry with them”
145LAM27ub33figs-metonymy0He has given over the walls of her palaces into the hand of the enemyHere the enemys “hand” refers to the enemys control. Alternate translation: “He has allowed the enemy to capture the walls of her palaces” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
146LAM27vn7kfigs-synecdoche0the walls of her palacesHere, the word **her** may refer either to the temple or to Jersualem. Possible translations are: (1) “the walls of the temple” or (2) “the walls of Jerusalems palaces.” The word “walls” is a synecdoche for the whole building, and the building is a synecdoche for all of Jerusalem. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
147LAM27jx6yfigs-irony0They have raised a shout in the house of Yahweh, as on the day of an appointed feastThis is an ironic comparison between the happy, noisy festivals of Israel and the loud shouts of victory of the Babylonians. Alternate translation: “They have raised a shout in the house of Yahweh, as the Israelites would during an appointed feast” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])
148LAM27t8c8figs-idiom0have raised a shoutThis is an idiom. Alternate translation: “have shouted victoriously” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
149LAM28de6pfigs-metonymy0Yahweh decided to destroy the city wallYahweh chose to have the wall destroyed and caused Jerusalems enemy to destroy it. He did not destroy it himself. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
150LAM28q6gnfigs-personification0daughter of ZionThis is a poetic name for Jerusalem, which is spoken of here as if it were a woman. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
151LAM28ydw2figs-metaphor0He has stretched out the measuring lineThis speaks of preparing to destroy the wall as if he measured it before he destroyed it, so that he knew how much to destroy. Alternate translation: “It is as though he has measured the wall” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
152LAM28pj1dfigs-doublenegatives0has not withheld his hand from destroyingThis can be stated without the double negatives. Also, here the Lord is referred to by his “hand.” Alternate translation: “with his hand he has destroyed the wall” or “he has destroyed the wall” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
153LAM28ac1hfigs-personification0He has made the ramparts and wall to lament; together they wasted awayThe walls and ramparts are spoken of as if they were people who lamented and died. Alternate translation: “Because he has destroyed the ramparts and walls, they are like people who lament and have lost their strength” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
154LAM28k5k20rampartsAncient cities had a main “wall” to keep attackers out, and an outer line of “ramparts” to keep attackers from the wall.
155LAM210ld1bfigs-personification0daughter of ZionThis is a poetic name for Jerusalem, which is spoken of here as if it were a woman. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
156LAM210ja3btranslate-symaction0sit on the ground in silenceOften people would sit on the ground to show they were mourning. Alternate translation: “sit on the ground, mourning in silence” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
157LAM210shs1translate-symaction0They have thrown dust on their heads and put on sackclothThese are actions of mourning. Alternate translation: “To show their mourning, they have thrown dust on their heads and put on sackcloth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
158LAM210e8dmtranslate-symaction0have bowed their heads to the groundThis is an action of mourning. Alternate translation: “have sorrowfully bowed their heads to the ground” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
159LAM211ur1i0General Information:The author shifts from describing Jerusalem to describing his own experience.
160LAM211ww8ffigs-idiom0My eyes have failed from their tearsThis is an idiom. Alternate translation: “I have cried until I cannot cry anymore” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
161LAM211r9cyfigs-metaphor0my stomach churnsThe word “churn” means to move around violently, normally in a circular rotation. This does not mean the stomach is literally churning, but describes how the author feels. Alternate translation: “my insides ache” or “my stomach hurts” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
162LAM211drr4figs-metaphor0my inner parts are poured out to the groundThe author speaks of feeling grief in his inner being as if his inner body parts had fallen out of his body onto the ground. Alternate translation: “my entire inner being is in grief” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
163LAM211ckr1figs-metonymy0the daughter of my peopleThis is a poetic name of Jerusalem, which is spoken of here as if it were a woman. Alternate translation: “my people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
164LAM212xg9tfigs-metonymy0Where is grain and wine?This rhetorical question is used as a request for something to eat. The children are telling their mother that they are hungry. The phrase “grain and wine” represents food and drink. This question may be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “Give us something to eat and drink.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
165LAM212e2aqfigs-simile0as they faint like a wounded manThis speaks of the children fainting from hunger and thirst in the same way that a wounded man faints. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
166LAM212m2n2figs-metaphor0their lives are poured out on the bosom of their mothersThis speaks of the children dying as if their lives were a liquid that was being poured out. Alternate translation: “they slowly die in the arms of their mothers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
167LAM213rk8s0General Information:The author begins to address Jerusalem.
168LAM213ez4efigs-rquestion0What can I say … Jerusalem?The author uses this rhetorical question to express that he does not know what to say to help Jerusalem. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “There is nothing that I can say … Jerusalem.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
169LAM213r825figs-personification0daughter of Jerusalem … virgin daughter of ZionThese are poetic names for Jerusalem, which is spoken of here as if it were a woman. “Zion” is another name for Jerusalem. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
170LAM213yt6jfigs-rquestion0To what can I compare to you … Zion?The author uses this rhetorical question to express that he does not know how to give comfort to Jerusalem. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “There is nothing to which I can compare you … Zion.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
171LAM213xm7jfigs-simile0Your wound is as great as the seaThis speaks of Jerusalems great suffering as if it were as terrible as the sea is great. Alternate translation: “Your suffering is as terrible as the sea is large” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
172LAM213cfe5figs-rquestion0Who can heal you?“Who can restore you?” The author uses this rhetorical question to express that there is no one who can restore Jerusalem to the way it was before. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “No one can heal you.” or “No one can restore you.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
173LAM214rg7i0They have not exposed your iniquity to restore your fortunes“They did not tell you about your sins to restore your fortunes.” The word “fortune” refers to a persons wealth and prosperity.
174LAM214p4y7figs-abstractnouns0for you they gave utterancesThe word “utterances” can be expressed with the verb “spoke.” Alternate translation: “they spoke things to you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
175LAM215na4vtranslate-symaction0clap their hands … hiss and shake their headsThese actions are used to mock and insult others. Alternate translation: “mock you by clapping their hands … hiss and shake their heads” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
176LAM215s9nnfigs-personification0the daughter of JerusalemThis is a poetic name for Jerusalem, which is spoken of here as if it were a woman. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
177LAM215cxb8figs-rquestion0Is this the city that they called The Perfection of Beauty, The Joy for All of Earth?This rhetorical question is used to express sarcasm. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “This city that they called The Perfection of Beauty, The Joy for All of Earth, is not so beautiful or joyful anymore!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
178LAM215rkz80The Perfection of Beauty“Perfectly Beautiful”
179LAM216t9p2translate-symaction0grind their teethThis action shows a persons anger and that they are mocking others. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
180LAM216v2edfigs-metaphor0We have swallowed her upHere the people speak of destroying Jerusalem as if they were an animal swallowing its food. Alternate translation: “We have completely destroyed Jerusalem” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
181LAM216p7nlfigs-idiom0We have lived to see itThis is an idiom. Alternate translation: “We have greatly desired to see it happen” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
182LAM217sv6l0He has overthrown“He has destroyed”
183LAM217l2hu0to rejoice over youThis means that the enemy rejoiced because they defeated them. Alternate translation: “to rejoice over defeating you”
184LAM217b3zbfigs-metonymy0he has lifted up the horn of your enemiesHere **horn** (that is, an animal horn) represents strength. Alternate translation: “he has increased the power of your enemies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
185LAM218v62efigs-synecdoche0Their heart cried out to the LordHere the word **heart** represents the whole person emphasizing ones innermost being. Possible meanings of who cried out are: (1) the people of Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “The people of Jerusalem shouted to the Lord from their innermost being” or (2) the walls are being personified. Alternate translation: “You walls, cry out to the Lord from your innermost being” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
186LAM218qsn1figs-apostrophe0walls of the daughter of Zion! Make your tears flow … no reliefThe writer speaks to the walls of Jerusalem. He wants the people of Jerusalem to do what he is telling the walls to do. Some translations take this whole section to be spoken to the “walls,” though this can be written with the first phrase “walls of the daughter of Zion!” spoken to the “walls,” and the rest of the section spoken directly to the people. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])
187LAM218ew4wfigs-personification0the daughter of ZionThis is a poetic name for Jerusalem, which is spoken of here as if it were a woman. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
188LAM218mbx5figs-metaphor0Make your tears flow down like a riverThis speaks of the people crying so much that their tears would flow like a river. Alternate translation: “Cry many, many tears” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
189LAM218kbz7figs-merism0day and nightThese two opposite times of day refer to all the time. Alternate translation: “all of the time” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
190LAM218s6980Give yourself no relief, your eyes no relief“Do not allow yourself and your eyes to rest from crying”
191LAM219t1jsfigs-apostrophe0Arise, cry out … of every streetThe writer continues speaking to the walls of Jerusalem. He wants the people of Jerusalem to do what he is telling the walls to do. Some translations take this whole section to be spoken to the “walls,” though this can be written with the first phrase “walls of the daughter of Zion!” spoken to the “walls,” and the rest of the section spoken directly to the people. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])
192LAM219bb9r0at the beginning of the night watches“many times during the night.” This refers to every time a watchman came on duty.
193LAM219n8wafigs-idiom0Pour out your heart like water before the face of the LordThe phrase “pour out your heart like water” is an idiom. Here the Lord is represented by his “face” to emphasize his presence. Alternate translation: “Tell the Lord how you feel in your inner being” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
194LAM219ihn4translate-symaction0Lift up your hands to himThis was an action often performed while praying. Alternate translation: “Lift up your hands to him in prayer” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
195LAM219xm86figs-explicit0for the lives of your childrenThis means for them to request that the Lord save their children. Alternate translation: “to save the lives of your children” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
196LAM219mt5tfigs-hyperbole0at the corner of every streetThe word “every” here is an exaggeration for “many.” Alternate translation: “where the streets come together” or “by the roads” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
197LAM220tx1sfigs-rquestion0Should women eat the fruit of their wombs … for?This rhetorical question is asked to emphasize that it is not right for women to eat their children. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “Woman should not eat their own children … for!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
198LAM220si6qfigs-metaphor0the fruit of their wombsThis speaks of children having come from their mother as if they were fruit that came from her womb. Alternate translation: “their children that they have given birth to” or “their own children” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
199LAM220iy1mfigs-rquestion0Should priest and prophet be slaughtered in the sanctuary of the Lord?This rhetorical question is used to emphasize that the prophets and priests should not be killed. This question can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “The prophets and priests should not be slaughtered in the sanctuary of the Lord!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
200LAM220e8btfigs-activepassive0Should priest and prophet be slaughteredThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Should our enemies slaughter priests and prophets” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
201LAM221h93zfigs-explicit0Both the young and the old lie on the dustIt is implied here that this refers to dead people. Alternate translation: “The corpses of both the young and the old lie on the dust” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
202LAM221bm92figs-nominaladj0Both the young and the oldThese phrases refer to people. These two opposites are used to refer to all ages of people. Alternate translation: “Both young people and old people” or “People of all ages” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
203LAM221hct5figs-euphemism0My young women and my young men have fallen by the swordHere the “sword” refers to their enemies. This is a euphemism that means that they were murdered by their enemies. Alternate translation: “My young women and my young men have been murdered by their enemies” or “My enemies have murdered my young women and my young men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
204LAM221qu9vfigs-metonymy0you have slaughtered themThis speaks of Yahweh allowing the poeple to be slaughtered as if he killed them himself. Alternate translation: “you allowed them to be slaughtered” or “you allowed this to happen” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
205LAM222re1yfigs-simile0as you would call the people to a feast day“as if they were coming to a feast.” This speaks of how Yahweh summoned his enemies as if he were inviting them to a feast. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
206LAM222bq2qfigs-metonymy0my terrorsHere the people the author fears are referred to as his “terrors.” Alternate translation: “the attackers I was afraid of” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
207LAM222d9kyfigs-idiom0on every sideThis is an idiom. Alternate translation: “to attack from every direction” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
208LAM222vzm7figs-idiom0on the day of the anger of YahwehHere “day” is used as an idiom that refers to a general period of time. Alternate translation: “at the time when Yahweh acted in his anger” or “during the time that Yahweh displayed his anger” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
209LAM3introc5kf0# Lamentations 03 General Notes<br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Troubles<br><br>Here the author speaks of the suffering experienced by the people of Jerusalem during the Babylonian siege and after the citys fall. He speaks of these sufferings as if they had been directed against him personally, as if God had personally attacked him. However, we should understand the writers feelings as having been shared by everyone in the city.<br><br>In verse 19, the writer begins to think about the lessons that he and his fellow citizens should learn about God and his anger and his mercy. He also thinks about what it means to repent and to trust in God.<br><br>In verse 43, the writer speaks again about the suffering that God has caused to Jerusalem, but here the writer speaks of “we” and “us,” not “I” and “me.” But in verse 48, he begins to speak about how he himself will continually mourn over what has happened.<br><br>In verse 52, the writer begins to think about his personal enemies in Jerusalem, those who persecuted him for bringing Yahwehs messages to the city. He asks for God to show his enemies that he was doing right, and to take revenge on them for their crimes against him.
210LAM31q73vwriting-poetry0A new poem begins. Here the author speaks of the sufferings that his people experienced. He speaks about them as if God had personally attacked only him. However, the writer intends to speak for everyone in the city. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
211LAM31z56pfigs-metaphor0who has seen miseryHere “has seen” represents has experienced. Alternate translation: “who has experienced misery” or “who has suffered” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
212LAM31w5zkfigs-metonymy0under the rod of Yahwehs furyBeing “under the rod” represents being beaten with a rod. The author speaks of Gods punishment as if God had beaten him with a rod. Alternate translation: “because Yahweh was very angry and has beaten me with a rod” or “because Yahweh was very angry and has punished me severely” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
213LAM32w3mw0He drove me away“He forced me to go away”
214LAM32zm2hfigs-metaphor0caused me to walk in darkness rather than lightHere “darkness” represents suffering. Alternate translation: “caused me to suffer terribly with no hope, like a person walking in darkness rather than light” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
215LAM33s83dfigs-metonymy0he turned his hand against meHere “turned his hand against me” represents attacking him. The author speaks of God causing bad things to happen to him as if God had attacked him. Alternate translation: “he has attacked me” or “he has caused many bad things to happen to me, like someone who attacks a person” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
216LAM34s5zt0He made my flesh and my skin waste away; he broke my bonesThis could mean: (1) these things are a result of being beaten or (2) these are more ways that God punished the man.
217LAM35qy5b0He built up siege works against meSiege works are ramps that an army builds around a city to enable them to climb over the city walls and invade the city.
218LAM35jj4efigs-metaphor0He built up siege works against meThis could mean: (1) the author speaks of God causing bad things to happen to him as if he were a city and God was an enemy that built up siege works against him. Alternate translation: “God attacked me like an enemy army that sets up siege works around a city” or (2) the author speaks of God causing the enemy army to attack Jerusalem as if God were the enemy. Alternate translation: “God caused the enemy army to build up siege works against me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
219LAM35gq5zfigs-metaphor0surrounded me with bitterness and hardshipThis represents God causing him to experience much bitterness and hardship. Alternate translation: “caused me to experience much bitterness and hardship” or “caused me to suffer and have many problems” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
220LAM35cn5tfigs-metaphor0bitternessHere “bitterness” represents suffering. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
221LAM36vnk1figs-metaphor0He made me live in dark places, like those who died long agoHere “dark places” is a metaphor for suffering. The author compares the intensity of his suffering to the intensity of the darkness that those who died long ago experience. Alternate translation: “The suffering that he causes me is intense like the darkness of the grave” or “He makes me suffer terribly, as if I were in the darkness of those who died long ago” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
222LAM37jwk4figs-metaphor0He built a wall around me and I cannot escape. He made my chains heavyThis represents the continuing suffering. Like a person who cannot escape from prison, the author cannot make his suffering stop. Alternate translation: “My suffering continues. It is as though he has built a wall around me and put heavy chains on me, and I cannot escape” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
223LAM38ep5pfigs-idiom0he shut out my prayerThe author speaks about God refusing to listen to his prayers as though God was shutting his ears so that the authors prayers could not go into them. Alternate translation: “he refuses to hear my prayer” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
224LAM39h2bxfigs-metaphor0He blocked my pathThe author speaks of God causing him to continue to suffer as if God was preventing him from escaping the suffering by blocking his path. Alternate translation: “It is as though he blocked my path” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
225LAM39b31l0a wall of hewn stone“a wall of cut stones.” People would cut stones into regular shapes that could fit together well in order to build a strong wall.
226LAM39ire6figs-metaphor0he made my paths crookedCrooked paths do not lead people to where they want to go. Here they represent unsuccessful ways of escaping suffering. Alternate translation: “it is as though he has made my paths crooked” or “I have tried to make the suffering stop, but God has prevented me, like one who prevents another from escaping by making his paths crooked” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
227LAM310v9qhfigs-simile0He is like a bear waiting to ambush me, a lion in hidingThe author speaks of God being ready to cause him to suffer more, as if God were a wild animal waiting to attack him. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
228LAM311m6yw0he turned aside my pathsThis could mean: (1) “he dragged me off the path” or (2) “he caused my path to turn in the wrong direction”
229LAM311whn10he has made me desolate“he has made me hopeless” or “he has not allowed me to have any help”
230LAM312pxe70General Information:God is often spoken of as if he were a warrior.
231LAM312eb1t0He bent his bowA soldier has to bend his bow in order to shoot an arrow from it. The author speaks of God deciding to cause him trouble as if God were a warrior ready to shoot him with an arrow. See how you translated this in [Lamentations 2:4](../02/04.md). Alternate translation: “It was as if God made his bow ready to shoot”
232LAM313yzp2figs-metaphor0He pierced my kidneys with the arrows of his quiverThe author speaks of the deep grief he feels as if God had shot his kidneys with an arrow. Alternate translation: “My grief is great. It is as if he pierced my kidneys with the arrows of his quiver” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
233LAM313aa5ffigs-metaphor0my kidneysThe kidneys are abdominal organs that move urine into the bladder. They are a metaphor for a persons emotions. Alternate translation: “deep into my body” or “my heart” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
234LAM313i1us0quivera bag worn on the back in which to store arrows
235LAM314et38figs-hyperbole0a laughingstock to all my peopleThe word “all” is a generalization, meaning “most.” Alternate translation: “a laughingstock to most of my people” or “someone whom all my people mock” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
236LAM314gq720laughingstocksomeone whom many people mock
237LAM315za84figs-metaphor0He filled me with bitternessHere “bitterness” represents suffering. It is referred to as if it were something that could fill the speaker. Alternate translation: “He has caused me to suffer very much” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
238LAM315ncz3figs-metaphor0forced me to drink wormwoodWormwood is the bitter juice from the leaves and flowers of a certain plant. Drinking that bitter juice represents suffering. Alternate translation: “it is as though he forced me to drink something very bitter” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
239LAM316b5hhfigs-metaphor0He has made my teeth grind with gravelThis could mean: (1) the author speaks of God humiliating him as if God had forced him to chew gravel. Alternate translation: “He has humiliated me, like someone who forces another to chew gravel” or (2) the author speaks of God humiliating him as if God had pushed his face down into the gravel on the ground. Alternate translation: “He has humiliated me, like someone who pushes another mans face down into the gravel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
240LAM316l411figs-metaphor0he made me cower in the ashesThe author speaks of God humiliating him as if God had pushed him down into the ashes of a fire on the ground. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
241LAM316tp2g0cowermake oneself as small as possible because of fear of something one cannot fight against
242LAM317ewh70My soul is deprived of peaceThis could mean: (1) the authors experiences are not peaceful. Alternate translation: “I have no peace in my life” or (2) the author does not feel peace. Alternate translation: “I feel no peace in my soul”
243LAM318ygy3figs-personification0My endurance has perished and so has my hope in YahwehThe author speaks as if his ability to endure more suffering and his hope that Yahweh will help him were living beings that have died. Alternate translation: “I cannot endure anymore suffering and I can no longer hope that Yahweh will help me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
244LAM318b3vb0enduranceSome versions translate this as “glory” or “splendor.”
245LAM319zfr60General Information:In verses 19 to 42, the writer thinks about the lessons that he and his fellow citizens should learn about God and his anger and mercy.
246LAM319j2d4figs-doublet0wormwood and bitternessWormwood is a plant that gives a liquid which is very bitter to drink. Together “wormwood” and “bitterness” represent severe suffering. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
247LAM320mz9u0my soul is bowed down within me“I am depressed” or “I am discouraged”
248LAM321t4a60But I call this to mindThis means to intentionally think about something. The word “this” refers to something that the author will start to speak about in the next verse. Alternate translation: “But I choose to think about this” or “But I remember this”
249LAM321a2fk0I have hope“I hope”
250LAM322hf5afigs-abstractnouns0The steadfast love of Yahweh never ceasesThe abstract noun “steadfast love” can be expressed with the phrase “love faithfully.” Alternate translation: “Yahweh never stops loving his people faithfully” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
251LAM322rs8gfigs-abstractnouns0his compassions never endThe abstract noun “compassions” can be translated with the verb “care.” Alternate translation: “he never stops caring for those who suffer” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
252LAM323z4xgfigs-metaphor0they are new every morningThe word “they” refers to Gods steadfast love and compassions. Their being new represents God continuing to act according to them. Alternate translation: “every morning he treats us again with steadfast love and compassion” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
253LAM323dp910your faithfulnessThe word “your” refers to Yahweh.
254LAM324v6shfigs-metaphor0Yahweh is my inheritanceWhen God gave each tribe of Israel their land, he called it an inheritance. The author speaks of Yahweh being all he needs as if Yahweh were the inheritance that he had received. Alternate translation: “Because Yahweh is with me, I have everything I need” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
255LAM325e8de0Yahweh is good to those who wait for himHere “good” refers to kindness. Alternate translation: “Yahweh is kind to those who wait for him” or “Yahweh does good things for those who wait for him”
256LAM325ju1d0those who wait for himThis could mean: (1) “all those who depend on him” or (2) “the one who waits patiently for him to act.”
257LAM325a3kwfigs-metaphor0the one who seeks himHere, **seeks him** could mean: (1) asking God for help or (2) wanting to know God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
258LAM327xea4figs-metaphor0that he bear the yoke in his youthHere “bear the yoke” represents suffering. The abstract noun “his youth” can be expressed with the word “young.” Alternate translation: “that he suffer while he is young” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
259LAM328deh50Let him sit alone in silenceThe phrase “in silence” refers to not speaking. Here it may refer specifically to not complaining. Alternate translation: “Let him sit alone without speaking” or “Let him sit alone and not complain”
260LAM328wc7pfigs-metaphor0when it is laid upon him“when the yoke is laid upon him.” Here the yoke represents suffering. Alternate translation: “when he suffers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
261LAM330t75y0General Information:The writer speaks of the one who waits for Yahweh ([Lamentations 3:25](../03/25.md)).
262LAM330buv3figs-metaphor0Let him offer his cheek to the one who strikes himThe word “him” refers to anyone who is suffering and who waits for Yahweh. Here “offer his cheek” represents allowing someone to strike his cheek. Alternate translation: “Let him allow people to hit him on the face” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
263LAM330haw3figs-metaphor0let him be filled to the full with reproachThe author speaks of a person as if he were a container and reproach were a liquid. Being filled with reproach represents being reproached much. The implication is that he should be patient when this happens. Alternate translation: “let him be insulted much” or “let him be patient when people reproach him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
264LAM332ytw10though he causes grief“though the Lord causes people to suffer” or “though he afflicts people”
265LAM332fsq40he will have compassion“he will be compassionate to them”
266LAM333lh34figs-metonymy0For he does not afflict from his heartHere the heart represents desire or pleasure, and afflicting from the heart represents afflicting with pleasure. Alternate translation: “For it does not make him happy to afflict people” or “He does not take pleasure in afflicting people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
267LAM333n5xvfigs-idiom0the children of mankindThis refers to people in general. Alternate translation: “human beings” or “people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
268LAM334pgn70General Information:The author wrote in general terms about what is true for all people, but it shows Gods concern for his people, the people of Israel, who were being mistreated by their enemies.
269LAM334m7kvfigs-metaphor0To crush underfootHere “crush underfoot” represents abusing and mistreating people. Alternate translation: “To abuse” or “To mistreat” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])-
270LAM334kq470To crush“If people crush”
271LAM335pi2h0to deny a man justice“if they deny a man justice.” This refers to not allowing a person to have what he deserves. Alternate translation: “to deny a person his rights” or “to keep a person from having what he deserves”
272LAM335w96nfigs-metonymy0in the presence of the Most HighDoing something “in the presence of the Most High” represents doing it while knowing that God sees it. Alternate translation: “knowing that the Most High sees it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
273LAM336h9te0to deny justice to a personHere “deny justice” refers to not making a just decision for a person in a legal concern. Alternate translation: “to judge a person wrongly in court” or “to keep a person who goes to a judge from getting what is right”
274LAM336kp3s0to deny justice“if they deny justice”
275LAM337vg2nfigs-rquestion0Who has spoken and it came to pass, unless the Lord decreed it?The author uses this rhetorical question to teach that when someone commands something to happen, it will happen only if God has already decreed that it should happen. Alternate translation: “No one has spoken and it came to pass, unless the Lord decreed it.” or “What someone has commanded to happen has never happened unless the Lord decreed it.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
276LAM337b2tefigs-explicit0has spokenIt can be expressed clearly that this refers to commanding something to happen. Alternate translation: “has commanded that something should happen” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
277LAM337q8z20it came to pass“what he said happened”
278LAM338hy3kfigs-metonymy0Is it not from the mouth of the Most High that both calamities and the good come?The author uses this rhetorical question to teach that both calamities and good things happen only because God has commanded them to happen. Alternate translation: “It is only from the mouth of the Most High that both calamities and the good come.” or “It is only because the Most High has commanded it that both calamities and good things happen.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
279LAM338fk6tfigs-metonymy0from the mouth of the Most HighHere “mouth” represents what God says or commands. Alternate translation: “from the command of the Most High” or “because the Most High has commanded it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
280LAM338wsx5figs-metaphor0both calamities and the good comeHere “come” represents happening. Also, the nominal adjective “the good” can be stated as “good things.” Alternate translation: “both calamities and good things happen” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
281LAM339ttp2figs-rquestion0How can any person alive complain? How can a person complain about the punishment for his sins?The author uses these rhetorical questions to teach that people should not complain when God punishes them. Alternate translation: “A person should not complain when God punishes him for his sins.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
282LAM339t4dwfigs-explicit0How can any person alive complainThis could mean: (1) it is implied that mere people cannot fully understand Gods actions. Alternate translation: “How can a mere person complain” or (2) it is implied that being alive is a gift from God. Alternate translation: “How can a person who is blessed to be alive complain” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
283LAM340ap270General Information:The writer speaks again about the suffering that God has caused to Jerusalem, but here he speaks of “we” and “us,” not “I” and “me.” In verse 42 the author starts a prayer that he and the people of Israel should pray.
284LAM340yx5kfigs-metaphor0let us return to YahwehHere “return to Yahweh” represents submitting to him again. Alternate translation: “let us submit to Yahweh again” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
285LAM341xq7nfigs-metaphor0Let us lift up our hearts and our handsHere “lift up our hearts” represents praying sincerely. It was customary for the Israelites to raise their hands when praying to God. Alternate translation: “Let us pray sincerely with lifted hands” or “Let us lift up our hands and pray sincerely” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
286LAM342j5p1figs-doublet0We have transgressed and rebelledThe words “transgressed” and “rebelled” share similar meanings. Together they indicate that transgression is the same as rebelling against Yahweh. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
287LAM343p547figs-metaphor0You have covered yourself with angerHere anger is spoken of as if it were a garment that God has put on. Hebrew often spoke of emotions as if they were clothing. Alternate translation: “You have been angry” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
288LAM343e5cg0you have killed“you have killed many of us”
289LAM343is87figs-metaphor0you have not sparedHere “spared” represents having pity. Alternate translation: “you have not had pity on us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
290LAM344c25d0Connecting Statement:The prayer that began in [Lamentations 3:42](../03/42.md) continues.
291LAM344d6dpfigs-metaphor0You have covered yourself with a cloud so that no prayer can pass throughThis represents God refusing to listen to the peoples prayer. Alternate translation: “You refuse to listen to our prayers. It is as though you put a cloud between us and you so that our prayers cannot get to you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
292LAM345nmh8figs-simile0You have made us like filthy scum and refuse among the nationsThe people of Israel are compared to filthy scum and refuse. This could mean: (1) God has caused the nations to think of his people as worthless. Alternate translation: “You have made the nations think of us as scum and garbage” or (2) Gods forcing his people to live among the nations is like throwing them away as garbage. Alternate translation: “You have thrown us away like filthy garbage among the nations” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
293LAM347jdl3figs-abstractnouns0panic and pitfall have come upon us, ruin and destructionThe abstract nouns “panic,” “pitfall,” “ruin” and “destruction” can be expressed with verbs. Alternate translation: “we are panicking. We are trapped, and we are being ruined and destroyed” or “we are terrified and trapped. We are being completely destroyed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
294LAM347bm4w0pitfallThis refers to falling into a pit. Here it represents being trapped in any way.
295LAM347i5970have come upon us“have happened to us”
296LAM347nh6ufigs-doublet0ruin and destructionThese two words share similar meanings and refer to the destruction of Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “total destruction” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
297LAM348kd2x0General Information:The author speaks about himself again.
298LAM348fl1xfigs-metaphor0My eyes flow with streams of tearsHere the author speaks of the great amount of his tears as if they were streams. He uses exaggeration to show that he is very sad and has cried much. Alternate translation: “Tears flow from my eyes like water flowing in a river” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
299LAM348fg7vfigs-activepassive0because my people are destroyedThis can stated in active form. Alternate translation: “because enemies have destroyed my people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
300LAM349ru79figs-doublet0without ceasing, without reliefBoth of these phrases means the same thing. The author speaks of his continuing to cry as if his eyes were a person and had no rest from crying. Alternate translation: “without stopping” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
301LAM350p99ufigs-explicit0until Yahweh from heaven looks down and seesWhat the author hopes Yahweh will see can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “until Yahweh looks down from heaven and sees what has happened to my people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
302LAM351i8zwfigs-metonymy0My eyes cause me griefThe phrase “My eyes” represents what he sees. Alternate translation: “What I see causes me to grieve” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
303LAM351bz52figs-explicit0because of all the daughters of my cityIt can be stated clearly that the “daughters of my city” are suffering. Alternate translation: “because the daughters of my city are suffering” or “because I see the daughters of my city suffering” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
304LAM351qr28figs-idiom0all the daughters of my cityThis could mean: (1) the women of Jerusalem or (2) all the inhabitants of Jerusalem. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
305LAM352n4m1figs-metaphor0I have been hunted like a bird by those who were my enemiesThe author speaks of people looking for him in order to kill him as if he were an animal that they were hunting. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “My enemies have looked for me in order to kill me like people who hunt for a bird” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
306LAM353fen20They cast me into a pit“They threw me into a pit” or “They dropped me into a well”
307LAM353t9e40threw a stone on meThis could mean: (1) “threw stones down on me” or (2) “covered the pit with a stone”
308LAM354ztv40they caused waters to overflow, covering my head“the level of the water in the pit rose up over my head”
309LAM354hda5figs-metaphor0I have been cut offBeing “cut off” often represents being killed. Here it represents dying very soon. Alternate translation: “I am about to die” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
310LAM355dit3figs-metonymy0I called on your nameGods name represents his character, and here, “called on your name” represents trusting Gods character and calling on him for help. Alternate translation: “I called to you for help” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
311LAM355r7m30from the depths of the pitThis could mean: (1) this refers to the pit that author had been thrown into. Alternate translation: “from the bottom of the pit” or (2) the author was afraid that he would die soon, so he spoke as if he were in the place of the dead. Alternate translation: “from the pit of the dead”
312LAM356s26cfigs-metonymy0You heard my voiceHere “voice” represents what he said. Alternate translation: “You heard my words” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
313LAM356ur2efigs-metonymy0Do not close your earHere “close your ear” represents refusing to listen. Alternate translation: “Do not refuse to listen” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
314LAM357egc5figs-metonymy0You came nearPeople often come near to a person they help. Here “came near” represents helping the man. Alternate translation: “you helped me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
315LAM358rq8wfigs-metaphor0you defended my case, you saved my lifeThe author speaks of God keeping him from being killed by his enemies as if God had defended him in court as a lawyer defends someone, and kept him from being killed. Alternate translation: “you saved my life from my enemies. It is as though you defended me in court” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
316LAM358x4xwfigs-metaphor0you defended my caseHere “defended my case” represents arguing for him. Alternate translation: “you argued my case for me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
317LAM359z61efigs-metaphor0judge my caseHere God is no longer pictured as a lawyer, but as the judge. It can be stated clearly that he wanted God to judge in his favor. Alternate translation: “make a decision about me, and show my enemies that I am right” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
318LAM361k1lwfigs-abstractnouns0You have heard their scorn … and all their plans regarding meThe abstract noun “scorn” can be expressed with the verbs “taunt” or “mock.” It can be stated clearly that the plans were to harm him. Alternate translation: “You heard how they have taunted me … and all they plan to do to me” or “You have heard them mock me … and plan ways to harm me” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
319LAM362x6kmfigs-metaphor0The lips and the accusations … come against me all the dayThe author speaks of his enemies accusing him all day as if their accusations were soldiers that come to attack him all day. Alternate translation: “My enemies speak against me and accuse me through the whole day” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
320LAM362u23ifigs-metonymy0The lips … of my enemiesHere the lips represent what his enemies say. Alternate translation: “The words … of my enemies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
321LAM363ti38figs-merism0how they sit and then rise upThese two actions together represent everything the people do. Alternate translation: “everything they do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
322LAM364h9mvfigs-metaphor0Pay back to them, Yahweh, according to what they have doneHere “Pay back to them” represents punishing them. What they have done can be stated clearly. Alternate translation: “Punish them, Yahweh, according to what they have done” or “Yahweh, they have made me suffer, so please make them suffer” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
323LAM365x92mfigs-metonymy0You will let their hearts be shamelessHere the “heart” is a metonym that represents their attitudes and emotions, and being “shameless” means not feeling ashamed of their sins even though they should. Their not being ashamed would give even more reason for God to punish them. Alternate translation: “You will let them feel no shame for their sins” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
324LAM365w3izfigs-abstractnouns0May your condemnation be upon themThe abstract noun “condemnation” can be expressed with the verbs “condemn” or “curse.” Alternate translation: “Condemn them” or “Curse them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
325LAM366zs3cfigs-metonymy0from under the heavensHere “from under the heavens” represents everywhere on earth. Alternate translation: “wherever they are on earth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
326LAM4introv7610# Lamentations 04 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>The story of Judah being destroyed continues in this chapter. Famine destroyed the rulers and the priests. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/priest]])
327LAM41rhc4writing-poetry0General Information:A new poem begins. See [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]].
328LAM41su7tfigs-metaphor0The gold has become tarnished; how the purest gold has changedThe people of Jerusalem are spoken of as if they were gold that is no longer shiny, and therefore no longer valuable. Alternate translation: “The people of Jerusalem are like gold that is no longer shiny. They are like pure gold that is no longer beautiful” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
329LAM41v4ijfigs-exclamations0how the purest gold has changedThis is an exclamation that shows the authors sadness that this has happened. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations]])
330LAM41d474figs-metaphor0The holy stones are scattered at the corner of every streetThis may refer to the temple being destroyed and its stones scattered throughout the city. It may also be a metaphor for the people being scattered. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
331LAM41ild20at the corner of every street“wherever the streets come together” or “by all the roads”
332LAM42va3jfigs-metaphor0sons of ZionHere people of a city are spoken of as if they were the sons of the city. This could mean: (1) this refers to only the young men of Jerusalem or (2) this refers to all the people of Jerusalem. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
333LAM42ld1afigs-metaphor0they are worth no more than clay jars, the work of the potters handsThe author speaks of the precious sons of Zion as if they were considered to be inexpensive clay jars. Alternate translation: “people consider them to be as worthless as the clay jars that potters make” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
334LAM43a5ip0General Information:Because of the lack of food in the city, the people of Jerusalem do not give their children all they need.
335LAM43m7cj0the jackals offer the breast to nurse their cubsThis means that mother jackals feed their baby jackals.
336LAM43k8ik0jackalsfierce wild dogs
337LAM43c37lfigs-simile0the daughter of my people … like the ostriches in the desertThe people in Jerusalem are compared to ostriches because they are cruel to their children. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
338LAM43ty21figs-metonymy0the daughter of my people hasThis is a poetic name for Jerusalem, which is spoken of here as if it were a woman. See how you translated this in [Lamentations 2:11](../02/11.md). Alternate translation: “my people have” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
339LAM43g4l20ostricheslarge birds that abandon some of their eggs
340LAM44zp130The tongue of the nursing baby sticks to the roof of his mouth by thirst“Nursing babies are so thirsty that their tongues stick to the top of their mouths”
341LAM45sft10feast on“eat much”
342LAM45p6wj0now starve in the streetsThese people no longer have homes, so they live outside along the streets.
343LAM45sg4zfigs-activepassive0Those who were brought up wearing scarlet clothingThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “those who grew up wearing scarlet clothing” or “those who wore scarlet clothing when they were growing up” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
344LAM45xp9mfigs-metonymy0scarlet clothingHere this phrase is a metonym for luxurious, expensive, and comfortable clothing, at least some of which was probably scarlet. Alternate translation: “luxurious clothing” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
345LAM45l3s20now lie on piles of ashesThis is because they no longer have homes and soft beds.
346LAM46nw5s0The punishment of the daughter of my people is greater than that of SodomThe abstract noun “punishment” can be expressed with the verb “punish.” Alternate translation: “The daughter of my people has been punished more severely than Sodom was punished”
347LAM46ef77figs-metonymy0the daughter of my peopleThis is a poetic name for Jerusalem, which is spoken of here as if it were a woman. See how you translated this in [Lamentations 2:11](../02/11.md). Alternate translation: “my people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
348LAM46l7zsfigs-activepassive0which was overthrown in a momentThe word “which” refers to Sodom. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “which God destroyed in a moment” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
349LAM46xk36figs-activepassive0no hands were wrung for herThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “no one wrung their hands for her” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
350LAM46wg9efigs-metonymy0no hands were wrung for herPeople sometimes rub and twist their hands when they are worried and cannot fix something, so wringing the hands here represents worrying. The word “her” refers to Jerusalem, which was called “the daughter of my people.” Alternate translation: “no one was worried about her” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
351LAM47gvp4figs-metaphor0Her leaders were purer than snow, whiter than milkThis could mean: (1) Jerusalems leaders were beautiful to look at because they were physically healthy or (2) the leaders were morally pure as new snow and milk are pure white. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
352LAM47wu6d0Her leaders“Jerusalems leaders”
353LAM47cw2zfigs-explicit0their bodies were more ruddy than coral“their bodies were redder than coral.” This implies that they were healthy. Alternate translation: “their bodies were healthy and red” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
354LAM47a3850corala rock-hard red substance that comes from the ocean and was used for making decorations
355LAM47b9bt0sapphirea costly blue stone used in jewelry
356LAM48i6jn0Their appearance now is darker than sootThis may be because: (1) the sun has darkened the leaders skin or (2) the soot from the fires that burned Jerusalem has covered their faces.
357LAM48es9afigs-activepassive0they are not recognizedThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “no one can recognize them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
358LAM48hhs8figs-explicit0Their skin has shriveled on their bonesThis implies that there was not much muscle or fat under the skin. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
359LAM48asf7figs-simile0it has become as dry as woodTheir dry skin is compared to dry wood. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
360LAM49ke6ffigs-metonymy0Those who have been killed by the swordHere the “sword” represents an enemys attack. It can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Those whom enemy soldiers have killed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
361LAM49k4rkfigs-metonymy0those killed by hungerHere “hunger” represents starvation. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “those who starved to death” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
362LAM49zt2w0who wasted away“who became extremely thin and weak”
363LAM49s8erfigs-metonymy0pierced by the lack of any harvest from the fieldHere “harvest from the field” is a metonym that represents food to eat. Lack of food is spoken of here as if it were a sword that pierces people. Alternate translation: “who died because there was not enough food to eat” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
364LAM410sfz2figs-synecdoche0The hands of compassionate womenHere the women are represented by their “hands.” Because they were so hungry, women who had been compassionate in the past were no longer compassionate toward their children; instead they boiled them for food. Alternate translation: “Compassionate women” or “Women who had been compassionate in the past” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
365LAM410e7bm0they became their food“their children became the womens food”
366LAM410bac1figs-metonymy0the daughter of my people wasThis is a poetic name for Jerusalem, which is spoken of here as if it were a woman. See how you translated this in [Lamentations 2:11](../02/11.md). Alternate translation: “my people were” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
367LAM411i5ysfigs-parallelism0Yahweh showed all his wrath; he poured out his fierce angerYahweh was very angry, and he did everything he wanted to do to show that he was angry. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
368LAM411xr4zfigs-metaphor0he poured out his fierce angerGods punishing his people is spoken of as if his anger were a burning hot liquid that he poured out on them. Alternate translation: “because of his fierce anger, he punished his people” or “in fierce anger he responded to his people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
369LAM411tc8vfigs-metonymy0He kindled a fire in ZionThis represents God causing Israels enemies to start a fire in Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “He caused a fire to start in Zion” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
370LAM411ml4mfigs-synecdoche0that consumed her foundationsHere “her foundations” represents the whole city, even the part of the city that would be ruined last. Alternate translation: “that burned down the city, even its foundations” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
371LAM412qvf10The kings of the earth did not believe, nor did any of the inhabitants of the world believe,“The kings of the earth and the rest of the inhabitants of the world did not believe”
372LAM412iy64figs-doublet0enemies or opponentsThese two words mean basically the same thing and emphasize that these are people who desired to harm Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “any kind of enemy” or “any of Jerusalems enemies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
373LAM413pz3yfigs-parallelism0the sins of her prophets and the iniquities of her priestsThese two lines share similar meanings and emphasize that these spiritual leaders were largely responsible for the fall of Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “the terrible sins of her prophets and priests” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
374LAM413t6hnfigs-metonymy0who have shed the blood of the righteousBoth the priests and the prophets were guilty of murder. Here “shed the blood” represents murder. Alternate translation: “who have murdered the righteous” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
375LAM414ah77figs-metaphor0They wandered, blind, through the streetsThe priests and prophets are spoken of as if they were blind because they wandered through the streets, not knowing where to go. Alternate translation: “They wandered through the streets like blind men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
376LAM414b7tifigs-metaphor0They were so defiled by that bloodHere “defiled” represents being unacceptable to God. Because the priests and prophets murdered people, they were ritually unclean, unable to worship God or be with ordinary people. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
377LAM414dpi8figs-metonymy0defiled by that blood“defiled by the blood that they shed.” This could mean: (1) the blood was on their clothes or (2) “blood” is a metonym for murder. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
378LAM415qtp20Away! Unclean“Go away! You are unclean”
379LAM415uf2c0Away! Away! Do not touch“Go away! Go away! Do not touch us”
380LAM416s74r0scattered them“scattered the prophets and priests”
381LAM416a7iffigs-metonymy0he does not watch over them anymoreHere “watch over them” represents being concerned about them and helping them. Alternate translation: “he does not care about them anymore” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
382LAM417j6acfigs-metonymy0Our eyes failed, looking in vain for helpTheir eyes failing represents their seeking and not being able to find what they were looking for. These two phrases together emphasize that they were trying hard to find help. Alternate translation: “We continued looking, but we could not find anyone to help us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
383LAM417gw6xfigs-abstractnouns0for helpThe abstract noun “help” can be expressed as a verb. Alternate translation: “for people to help us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
384LAM417ep110in vainwithout succeeding
385LAM417j62qfigs-metaphor0we watched for a nation that could not rescue usHere “watched” represents hoping. It can be stated clearly that they were hoping that a nation would come and rescue them. Alternate translation: “we hoped for a nation to come and rescue us, but it could not rescue us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
386LAM418ah5mfigs-metonymy0They followed our stepsHere “our steps” represents where they went. Alternate translation: “Our enemies followed us everywhere we went” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
387LAM418sgr6figs-metaphor0Our end was nearHere “near” is a metaphor for “soon.” Alternate translation: “Our end would be soon” or “Our enemies would soon destroy us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
388LAM418g9cvfigs-explicit0Our endThis could mean: (1) “Our end” refers to the end of living in their own city because their enemies would destroy the city and capture them. Alternate translation: “Our destruction” or “Our capture” or (2) “Our end” refers to the end of their lives. Alternate translation: “Our death” or “The time for us to die” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
389LAM418m59pfigs-metaphor0our days were numberedBeing numbered represents being so few that they could be easily counted. Alternate translation: “we had very little time” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
390LAM418knb5figs-metaphor0our end had comeThe phrase “had come” means that what they had expected was now happening. Alternate translation: “it was now the end for us” or “our enemies were attacking us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
391LAM419a693figs-simile0Our pursuers were swifter than the eagles in the skyThe author compares the speed of their pursuers to the speed of eagles flying. Eagles fly very quickly to catch other animals. Alternate translation: “Those who were chasing us were faster than eagles” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
392LAM419q2y40lay in wait for us“waited to attack us”
393LAM420k8w6figs-metaphor0he was the one who was captured in their pitsHere “pits” refers to the enemies plans to capture him. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “he was the one whom our enemies captured by their plans” or “our enemies made plans to capture our king, and they did capture him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
394LAM420l1a8figs-distinguish0of whom it was saidThis phrase with the quote following it gives us more information about the king. The quote shows what the people had hoped the king would do for them before he was trapped. It can be expressed in active form. Alternate translation: “even though we had said about him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
395LAM420d6rlfigs-metaphor0Under his shadow we will live among the nationsHere “his shadow” represents him protecting them. Alternate translation: “Under his protection we will live among the nations” or “Though we may have to live in other nations, he will protect us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
396LAM421x8qpfigs-doublet0Rejoice and be glad“Rejoice” and “be glad” mean basically the same thing and emphasize the intensity of gladness. The writer uses these words to mock the people. He knew that the people of Edom would be glad that Jerusalem is being destroyed. Alternate translation: “Be very glad” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])
397LAM421k5q4figs-personification0daughter of EdomThe people of the land of Edom are spoken of as if they were a woman. They were Israels enemy. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
398LAM421d53pfigs-metaphor0But to you also the cup will be passedThe cup is a metonym for the wine in it. The wine is a metaphor for punishment. Alternate translation: “But Yahweh will also punish you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
399LAM422i7ubfigs-personification0Daughter of ZionThe people of Jerusalem are spoken of as if they were a woman. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])\
400LAM422y3mufigs-abstractnouns0your punishment will come to an end“your punishment will end.” The abstract noun punishment can be expressed with the verb “punish.” Alternate translation: “Yahweh will stop punishing you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
401LAM422jt3i0he will not extend your exile“Yahweh will not make your time in exile longer” or “Yahweh will not make you stay in exile longer”
402LAM422c3znfigs-metaphor0he will uncover your sinsHere the sins not being known by others are spoken of as if they are under a cover. Removing the cover represents letting other people know about them. Alternate translation: “he will expose your sins” or “he will cause other people to know how you have sinned” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
403LAM5introsi980# Lamentations 05 General Notes<br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Judah was destroyed for her sin. As slaves, life was very hard. The author wondered if God would be angry forever. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/eternity]])
404LAM51hj48writing-poetry0General Information:A new poem begins. See [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]].
405LAM51a5gvfigs-idiom0Remember, Yahweh, what has happened to us“Remember” here is an idiom. Alternate translation: “Yahweh, think about what has happened to us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
406LAM51q2dv0look and see our disgrace“look at the shameful state we are in”
407LAM52iwh9figs-activepassive0Our inheritance has been turned over to strangers; our houses to foreignersThe idea of things being turned over to others can be expressed with an active form. Since it is also understood in the second part of the sentence, those words can be repeated there. Alternate translation: “You have turned our inheritance over to strangers; you have turned our houses over to strangers” or “You have allowed strangers to take possession of our inheritance; you have allowed foreigners to take possession of our houses” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
408LAM53ijy8figs-metaphor0We have become orphans … our mothers are like widowsThe people of Jerusalem have no one to protect them because the men have either died in battle or have gone into exile. This speaks of the people not having their fathers and husbands present as if they had actually become orphans and widows. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
409LAM53alg7figs-parallelism0orphans, the fatherlessThese two phrases have the same meaning and emphasize that the people no longer have their fathers. Alternate translation: “orphans who have no fathers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
410LAM54b28pfigs-explicit0We must pay silver for the water we drink … our own woodThis means that their enemies are making them pay money to have the water and wood that they once used for free. Alternate translation: “We have to pay silver to our enemies in order to drink our own water … our own wood” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
411LAM54it5lfigs-activepassive0we must pay silver to get our own woodThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “our enemies sell us our own wood” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
412LAM55a9sx0Those who are coming after us“Our enemies who are chasing after us.” This refers to the Babylonian army.
413LAM55nf7cfigs-metaphor0we can find no restThis speaks of being able to rest as if “rest” were an object that could be found. Alternate translation: “we are unable to rest” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
414LAM56ysv9figs-idiom0We have given ourselves to Egypt and to Assyria to get enough foodThis phrase “given ourselves” is an idiom. Alternate translation: “We have made a treaty with Egypt and with Assyria so that we would have food to eat” or “We have surrendered to Egypt and to Assyria to have enough food to remain alive” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
415LAM57ecx8figs-euphemism0they are no moreThis refers to them being dead. Alternate translation: “they have died” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
416LAM57zhr6figs-metonymy0we bear their iniquitiesHere “iniquities” represents the punishment received because of their ancestors sins. Alternate translation: “we bear the punishment for their sins” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
417LAM58em5ufigs-explicit0Slaves rule over usThis could mean: (1) “Now the people who rule over us are themselves slaves to their own masters in Babylon” or (2) “People who used to be slaves in Babylon now rule over us.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
418LAM58ku5lfigs-metonymy0to deliver us from their handHere the word “hand” refers to control. Alternate translation: “to rescue us from their control” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
419LAM59nl6vfigs-metonymy0breadHere “bread” refers to food in general. Alternate translation: “food” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
420LAM59uiq1figs-metonymy0because of the sword in the wildernessHere robbers with swords are represented by their “swords.” Alternate translation: “because there are robbers in the wilderness who kill others with swords” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
421LAM510r3jffigs-simile0Our skin has grown as hot as an oven because of the burning heat of hungerThis speaks of the peoples bodies being hot and feverish as if their skin was as hot as an oven. The people have fever because of their hunger. Alternate translation: “Our skin has become hot like an oven, and we have a very high fever because we are extremely hungry” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
422LAM511z35xfigs-parallelism0Women are raped in Zion, and virgins in the cities of JudahThese two phrases have similar meaning and emphasize that the women are being violated. The words “are raped” are understood in the second part of this sentence and can be repeated. Alternate translation: “Women are raped in Zion, and virgins are raped in the cities of Judah” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
423LAM511y3mefigs-activepassive0Women are raped … and virginsThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Our enemies have raped the women … and the virgins” or “Our enemies have violated the women … and the virgins” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
424LAM512zb120Princes are hung up by their own handsThis could mean: (1) the word “their” refers to their enemies. Alternate translation: “With their own hands, they hung princes” or (2) they tied each princes hands together with one end of a rope and tied the other end so the princes feet could not touch the ground.
425LAM512g7iqfigs-activepassive0no honor is shown to the eldersThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “they have shown no honor to the elders” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
426LAM513f7ubfigs-activepassive0Young men are forcedThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “They force young men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
427LAM513fzz3figs-explicit0boys stagger under heavy loads of woodThe boys are forced to carry the loads of wood. Alternate translation: “boys stagger because they are forced to carry heavy loads of wood” or “they force the boys to carry heavy loads of wood which make them stagger” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
428LAM514ji4x0the city gateThis is where the elders would give legal advice, but also where people would meet socially.
429LAM514j6xcfigs-metaphor0the young men have left their musicPlaying music was part of the social life at the city gate. This speaks of the men no longer playing their music as if the act of playing music were a place that they left. Alternate translation: “the young men have stopped playing their music” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
430LAM515l248figs-synecdoche0The joy of our heartHere the word “heart” refers to the whole person and emphasizes their emotions. Alternate translation: “Our joy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
431LAM516j13sfigs-metonymy0The crown has fallen from our headThis could mean: (1) “We no longer wear flowers on our heads for celebrations” or (2) The “crown” represents their king and their “head” represents a place of authority over the people. Alternate translation: “We no longer have a king” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
432LAM517gbn4figs-metonymy0For this our heart has become sickThe “heart” represents a persons emotions. This speaks of a person being discouraged as if their emotions were sick. Alternate translation: “Because of this we are discouraged” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
433LAM517tqx4figs-explicit0for these things our eyes grow dimThis means that they have a hard time seeing because they are crying. Alternate translation: “and we can hardly see because our eyes are full of tears” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
434LAM518p4v10for Mount Zion lies desolateHere “Mount Zion” refers to Jerusalem. The phrase “lies desolate” means that no one lives there.
435LAM518i8us0jackalsThese are fierce wild dogs. See how you translated this in [Lamentations 4:3](../04/03.md).
436LAM519x9jhfigs-metonymy0sit upon your throneHere sitting on the throne represents ruling as king. Alternate translation: “rule as king” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
437LAM519bv71figs-idiom0from generation to generationThis is an idiom. Alternate translation: “always” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
438LAM520kf3sfigs-rquestion0Why do you forget us forever? Why do you forsake us for the length of your days?The author uses these rhetorical questions to express his feelings that Yahweh has forgotten them. These questions can be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “It is as though you will forget us forever or not come back to us for a very long time!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
439LAM520yr7cfigs-idiom0for the length of your daysHere this idiom refers to the duration of Gods life. Since God lives forever, it can also be translated as “forever.” Perhaps the writer was uing hyperbole and exaggerating the length of time he believed that God was forsaking them. Alternate translation: “for as long as you live” or “forever” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
440LAM521igv80Restore us to yourself“Bring us back to yourself”
441LAM522bh9w0unless you have utterly rejected us and you are angry with us beyond measureThis could mean: (1) that the writer is afraid that Yahweh might be too angry to restore them or (2) that he is saying that Yahweh is too angry to restore them.
442LAM522x3adfigs-hypo0are angry with us beyond measureThis speaks of Yahweh being very angry as if his anger cannot be measured. This is an exaggeration. Alternate translation: “are extremely angry with us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])