unfoldingWord_en_tn/tn_LAM.tsv

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2front:introzxy70# Introduction to Lamentations\n\n## Part 1: General Introduction\n\n### Outline of the Book of Lamentations\n\n1. First lament: Yahweh and his people have abandoned Jerusalem (1:122)\n1. Second lament: Yahweh was angry with Jerusalem and caused it to be destroyed (2:122)\n1. Third lament (3:1-66)\n * The people grieve (3:120)\n * Yahweh comforts those who turn back to him (3:2139)\n * Judah is learning to return to Yahweh (3:4054)\n * Judah cries out to be avenged of its enemies (3:5566)\n1. Fourth lament: The terrors of the siege of Jerusalem (4:1-4:22)\n * The peoples sin caused Jerusalem to be punished (4:120)\n * Their being punished satisfied Yahwehs wrath for their sin (4:2122a)\n * Edom will be punished also (4:22b)\n1. Fifth lament: The broken nation cries out to Yahweh (5:122)\n\n### What is the Book of Lamentations about?\n\nThe Babylonians captured the city of Jerusalem in 586 B.C. In the Book of Lamentations, the writer grieves over Jerusalem being destroyed.\n\nThe 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://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/faith]])\n\n### Who wrote the Book of Lamentations?\n\nThe 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.\n\n### How should the title of this book be translated?\n\nTranslators 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://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])\n\n## Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts\n\n### Did God abandon Israel?\n\nThe author of Lamentations often speaks of God abandoning Israel. But this did not mean that God had completely given up on Israel.\nHe 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.\n\nWhile 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://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/falsegod]])\n\n### What is a funeral song?\n\nPeople 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.\n\n## Part 3: Important Translation Issues\n\n### What style of writing is Lamentations?\n\nLamentations 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.\n\n### Who are the woman and the man in Lamentations?\n\nThe 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
31:introcpx30# Lamentations 1 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\n### Judah destroyed for her sin\n\nJudah used to be great, but is now a slave. The temple is stripped of all its valuables. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/temple]])
41:1mx9erc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetryGeneral Information:0# General Information:\n\nVarious poetic forms are used throughout this book. (See [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
51:1i4kkrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphoris now sitting all alone0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
61:1azd1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationShe0The writer of Lamentations writes about the city of Jerusalem as if it were a woman. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
71:1p68irc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-similelike a widow0This speaks of Jerusalem as being without protection, as if it were a vulnerable widow. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
81:1jn93rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorShe was a princess among the nations0This speaks of Jerusalem being honored as if it were a princess. Alternate translation: “She was like a princess among the nations” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
91:1k944rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveforced into slavery0“forced to become a slave.” If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “but she is now a slave” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
101:2hy2krc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationShe weeps and wails … and her tears cover her cheeks0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
111:2vm69rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doubletweeps and wails0The word “wails” refers to the sounds that a person makes when they “weep” loudly. Alternate translation: “weeps loudly” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
121:2xf4hrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorNone of her lovers comfort her. All her friends have betrayed her0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
131:3wtj1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationGeneral Information:0# General Information:\n\nIn these verses, Jerusalem and Judah are spoken of as if they were women. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
141:3jc3tAfter poverty and affliction0Alternate translation: “After suffering poverty and affliction”
151:3d5d4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyJudah has gone into exile0Here 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
161:3yb38rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationShe lives … finds0Here 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
171:3ti2ffinds no rest0Alternate translation: “does not find rest” or “is always afraid”
181:3w248rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationAll her pursuers overtook her in her desperation0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
191:3can4All her pursuers overtook her0Alternate translation: “Everyone who was chasing her managed to capture her” or “Everyone who was hunting for her found her”
201:3fm5drc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsin her desperation0The word “desperation” can be expressed as an adjective. Alternate translation: “when she was desperate” or “when she was distressed” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
211:4i8dbrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationGeneral Information:0# General Information:\n\nThe 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
221:4h3bmrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationThe roads of Zion mourn0The author speaks of the roads that lead to Zion mourning as if they were human beings. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
231:4x725the appointed feasts0Alternate translation: “the feasts that God told them to celebrate”
241:4ih8frc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationAll her gates are desolate0The word “her” refers to Zion. Alternate translation: “All of Zions gates are empty” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
251:4bv2drc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationHer virgins are sorrowful and she herself is in complete distress0Here 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
261:5m4mrHer adversaries have become her master; her enemies prosper0Alternate translation: “Zions adversaries rule over it; its enemies prosper”
271:5h8q8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationYahweh has afflicted her for her many sins0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
281:5h9dxrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsHer little children go into captivity to her adversary0The word “captivity” can be expressed as a verb. Alternate translation: “Her enemy captures her little children” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
291:6e22rrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationGeneral Information:0# General Information:\n\nThe 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
301:6vlv6Beauty has left the daughter of Zion0This 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”
311:6i7terc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationdaughter of Zion0This is a poetic name for Jerusalem, which is spoken of here as if it were a woman. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
321:6imv9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simileHer princes have become like deer that cannot find pasture0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
331:6q9zideer0A 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.
341:6gx4lthey go without strength before0Alternate translation: “they are not strong enough to run away from” or “they are very weak before”
351:6m8wrtheir pursuer0Alternate translation: “the person that is pursuing them”
361:7yp42In the days of her affliction and her homelessness0Alternate translation: “During the time of her affliction and her homelessness”
371:7g8bbrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyJerusalem will call to mind0Here “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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
381:7p1paprecious treasures0This refers to their valuable possessions.
391:7kyv3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitin former days0“in the past.” This refers to the time before the people of Jerusalem were captured. Alternate translation: “before this disaster happened” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
401:7a6c2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyWhen her people fell into the hand of the adversary0Here the word “hand” refers the control of the enemy army. Alternate translation: “When the adversary conquered and captured her people” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
411:7m6upsaw her and laughed at her destruction0This means that they were glad and mocked Jerusalem when it was destroyed.
421:7ck49rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsat her destruction0This word “destruction” can be expressed as a verb. Alternate translation: “because she was destroyed” or “while they destroyed her” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
431:8z8dzrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationGeneral Information:0# General Information:\n\nThe 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
441:8h4x9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simileJerusalem sinned greatly, therefore, she has become scorned as something that is filthy0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
451:8ib81rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationJerusalem sinned greatly0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
461:8jpl7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassivehas become scorned0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “has become an object of scorn” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
471:8lwa4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationher nakedness0“her naked.” Jerusalem is described as a woman whose private parts have been exposed to everyone to shame her. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
481:9tsa8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorShe has become unclean beneath her skirts0According 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
491:9z2lmrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorunclean0A person who God considers to be spiritually unacceptable or defiled is spoken of as if the person were physically unclean. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
501:9r5x9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomHer fall was terrible0The phrase “her fall” is an idiom. Alternate translation: “Her downfall was astonishing” or “Those who saw her destruction were surprised” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
511:9h7errc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationLook at my affliction, Yahweh0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
521:9fv36Look at0Alternate translation: “Pay attention to”
531:9bx6prc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitthe enemy has become too great0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
541:10mu6hrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomhas put his hand on0This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “has taken possession of” or “has stolen” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
551:10mp1sprecious treasures0This refers to their valuable possessions.
561:10ban1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationShe has seen0The word “She” refers to Jerusalem. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
571:10qt1mrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdochethe nations0This refers to people from various nations, not the entire population of those nations. Alternate translation: “people from the nations” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
581:10u91byou had commanded0The word “you” refers to Yahweh.
591:11ybg4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationher people0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
601:11sr71rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdochebread0This refers to food in general. Alternate translation: “food” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
611:11q7bprc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitThey have given their precious treasures for food0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
621:11kx7cprecious treasures0This refers to their valuable possessions.
631:11u733to restore their lives0Alternate translation: “to save their lives” or “to restore their strength”
641:11ae41rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationLook, Yahweh, and consider me0Here Jerusalem speaks directly to Yahweh. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
651:12lv2drc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionIs it nothing to you, all you who pass by?0This rhetorical question is an accusation aganist the people who walk past Jerusalem and do not care about its well-being. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “All you who pass by should care more for my affliction!” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
661:12hb8jrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationIs it nothing to you0Here Jerusalem continues to speak, but now to people who pass by instead of to Yahweh. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
671:12mb6zrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doubletLook and see0These words share similar meanings. Together they invite the reader to understand by seeing that no one has suffered so much. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
681:12gua5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassivethe sorrow that is being inflicted on me0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the sorrow that Yahweh is inflicting upon me” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
691:12xgh8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomon the day of his fierce anger0Here the word “day” is used as an idiom. Alternate translation: “when he was fiercely angry” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
701:13vg27rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationGeneral Information:0# General Information:\n\nIn this section Jerusalem is portrayed as a woman speaking about herself. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
711:13x6aprc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomon high0This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “heaven” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
721:13y8l7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationhe has sent fire into my bones, and it has conquered them0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
731:13d689rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyhas sent fire into my bones0Here “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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
741:13pt8brc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationHe has spread a net for my feet0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
751:13y57irc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomturned me back0This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “prevented my from walking any further” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
761:14f1g6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorThe yoke of my transgressions … They are knit together and placed upon my neck0This 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, If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “My transgressions are like a yoke that he has bound together with his hands and placed upon my neck” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
771:14m9tarc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymygiven me over into their hands0“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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
781:14rm8krc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomI am not able to stand0This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “I cannot resist them” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
791:15b3xhrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationGeneral Information:0# General Information:\n\nIn this section Jerusalem is portrayed as a woman speaking about herself. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
801:15ruu7mighty men0Alternate translation: “strongest soldiers”
811:15ct6zrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphoran assembly0Here 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
821:15zrt4to crush my vigorous men0This speaks of the enemy army defeating the soldiers of Jerusalem as if they crushed them. Alternate translation: “to defeat my vigorous men”
831:15yz3yvigorous men0This refers to men at the strongest time of their lives.
841:15t625rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorThe Lord has trampled … in the winepress0Here 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
851:15w82erc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorthe virgin daughter of Judah0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
861:16ze56rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationGeneral Information:0# General Information:\n\nIn 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
871:16p25mrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorfor a comforter is far from me, one who restores my life0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
881:16h5c9restores my life0Alternate translation: “revives me”
891:17ua88rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationZion has spread her hands wide0Here 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
901:17jc3ithose around Jacob0Alternate translation: “the people around Jacob” or “the nations surrounding Jacob”
911:17f1emrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyaround Jacob should be his adversaries0Here “Jacob” refers to his descendants, that is Israel. Alternate translation: “around Jacobs descendants should be their adversaries” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
921:17t8w2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorunclean0A person who God considers spiritually unacceptable or defiled is spoken of as if the person were physically unclean. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
931:18cz8zrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationGeneral Information:0# General Information:\n\nIn this section Jerusalem is portrayed as a woman speaking about herself. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
941:18l7wgYahweh is righteous0This 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”
951:18f15frc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounssee my sorrow0The word “sorrow” can be expressed as a “sad.” Alternate translation: “see how extremely sad I am” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
961:18lnt9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheMy virgins and my vigorous men have gone into captivity0Here 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
971:18ay2gvigorous men0This refers to men at the strongest time of their lives. See how you translated this in [Lamentations 1:15](../01/15.md).
981:19ffv5I called for my friends0Alternate translation: “I called for my friends to help me” or “I called for my allies to help me”
991:19i88crc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitthey were treacherous toward me0This means that they betrayed him. Alternate translation: “they betrayed me” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1001:19i9bkto restore their lives0Alternate translation: “to save their lives” or “to restore their strength”
1011:20tsg9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationGeneral Information:0# General Information:\n\nIn this section Jerusalem is portrayed as a woman speaking about herself. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
1021:20le5prc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationLook, Yahweh, for I am in distress0Jerusalem continues to talk about herself as if she were a woman, but now talks directly to Yahweh. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
1031:20csk1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphormy stomach churns0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1041:20wyf3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdochemy heart is disturbed within me0Here 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1051:20xmz9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymythe sword bereaves a mother0The “sword” represents the enemy. Alternate translation: “the enemy kills a mothers children” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1061:20vx25rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitinside the house there is only death0This could mean: (1) “inside the house, everyone is dying” or (2) “and inside the house the dead people are kept” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1071:21qm9mrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationGeneral Information:0# General Information:\n\nIn this section Jerusalem is portrayed as a woman speaking about herself. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
1081:21n3narc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationThey have heard my groaning0“People have heard my groaning.” Jerusalem continues to speak as if she were a woman. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
1091:21r2sjyou have done it0Here the word “you” refers to Yahweh.
1101:21qe7hrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomYou have brought the day you promised0The phrase “the day” is an idiom that refers to a specific event happening. Alternate translation: “You have done what you have promised” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1111:21cir1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitnow let them become like me0This is a request for Jerusalems enemies to suffer as the people of Jerusalem have. Alternate translation: “now let them suffer like me” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1121:22qsw5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomLet all their wickedness come before you0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1131:22j42rrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitdeal with them as you have dealt with me0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1141:22e4g5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdochemy heart is faint0Here the “heart” represents the whole person. Alternate translation: “I am faint” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1152:introw57v0# Lamentations 2 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nGod has become Judahs enemy. He is determined to destroy them.
1162:1r7dkrc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetryGeneral Information:0# General Information:\n\nA new poem begins. The writer of Lamentations uses many different ways to express that the people of Israel have lost Gods favor. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1172:1gee6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorThe Lord has covered the daughter of Zion under the cloud of his anger0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1182:1ddb5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationthe daughter of Zion0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
1192:1qu7xrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorHe has thrown the splendor of Israel down from heaven to earth0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1202:1xfe7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorHe has not remembered his footstool0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1212:1l7v9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphornot remembered0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1222:1lqv1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomon the day of his anger0Here “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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1232:2a52brc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationthe daughter of Judah0This is a poetic name for Jerusalem, which is spoken of here as if it were a woman. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
1242:2a6zurc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomthe days of his anger0Here “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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1252:2gz9brc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorswallowed up0This speaks of the Lord completely destroying the towns as if he were an animal who ate them. Alternate translation: “completely destroyed” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1262:2v8mhrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyall the towns of Jacob0Here “the towns of Jacob” refers to the towns where his descendants lived. Alternate translation: “all the towns of Israel” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1272:2rv9kthe fortified cities of the daughter of Judah0This could mean: (1) the fortified cities throughout Judah or (2) the fortified walls of Jerusalem.
1282:3ga1grc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorhe has cut off every horn of Israel0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1292:3liy3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymywithdrawn his right hand from before the enemy0Here the Lords protection is represented by his “right hand.” Alternate translation: “stopped protecting us from our enemies” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1302:3cni2He has burned up Jacob like a blazing fire that devours everything around it0This 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”
1312:3rkj3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyJacob0Here “Jacob” refers to the places where his descendants lived. Alternate translation: “Israel” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1322:4cd29rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simileLike an enemy he has bent his bow toward us, with his right is ready to shoot0A 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
1332:4x4plrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationin the tent of the daughter of Zion0The “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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1342:4p4pwrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorhe has poured out his wrath like fire0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1352:5zz9urc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorswallowed up0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1362:5m29zher palaces … her strongholds0Israel is spoken of as if it were female.
1372:5l83lrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsHe has increased mourning and lamentation within the daughter of Judah0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1382:5n1vhrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationdaughter of Judah0This is a poetic name for Jerusalem, which is spoken of here as if it were a woman. Alternate translation: “Judah” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
1392:6erj2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simileHe has attacked his tabernacle like a garden hut0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1402:6w3hha garden hut0a very small building for holding farming tools or for sheltering someone who is guarding a garden
1412:6tg96rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyHe has destroyed the place of the solemn assembly0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1422:6zkt2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassivecaused both solemn assembly and Sabbath to be forgotten in Zion0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “caused the people in Zion to forget both solemn assembly and Sabbath” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1432:6y8ifin the indignation of his anger0Alternate translation: “because he was extremely angry with them”
1442:7ub33rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyHe has given over the walls of her palaces into the hand of the enemy0Here the enemys “hand” refers to the enemys control. Alternate translation: “He has allowed the enemy to capture the walls of her palaces” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1452:7vn7krc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdochethe walls of her palaces0Here, 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1462:7jx6yrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ironyThey have raised a shout in the house of Yahweh, as on the day of an appointed feast0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])
1472:7t8c8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomhave raised a shout0This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “have shouted victoriously” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1482:8de6prc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyYahweh decided to destroy the city wall0Yahweh chose to have the wall destroyed and caused Jerusalems enemy to destroy it. He did not destroy it himself. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1492:8q6gnrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationdaughter of Zion0This is a poetic name for Jerusalem, which is spoken of here as if it were a woman. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
1502:8ydw2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorHe has stretched out the measuring line0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1512:8pj1drc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegativeshas not withheld his hand from destroying0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1522:8ac1hrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationHe has made the ramparts and wall to lament; together they wasted away0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
1532:8k5k2ramparts0Ancient cities had a main “wall” to keep attackers out, and an outer line of “ramparts” to keep attackers from the wall.
1542:10ld1brc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationdaughter of Zion0This is a poetic name for Jerusalem, which is spoken of here as if it were a woman. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
1552:10ja3brc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symactionsit on the ground in silence0Often people would sit on the ground to show they were mourning. Alternate translation: “sit on the ground, mourning in silence” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
1562:10shs1rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symactionThey have thrown dust on their heads and put on sackcloth0These are actions of mourning. Alternate translation: “To show their mourning, they have thrown dust on their heads and put on sackcloth” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
1572:10e8dmrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symactionhave bowed their heads to the ground0This is an action of mourning. Alternate translation: “have sorrowfully bowed their heads to the ground” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
1582:11ur1iGeneral Information:0# General Information:\n\nThe author shifts from describing Jerusalem to describing his own experience.
1592:11ww8frc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomMy eyes have failed from their tears0This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “I have cried until I cannot cry anymore” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1602:11r9cyrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphormy stomach churns0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1612:11drr4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphormy inner parts are poured out to the ground0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1622:11ckr1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymythe daughter of my people0This is a poetic name of Jerusalem, which is spoken of here as if it were a woman. Alternate translation: “my people” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
1632:12xg9trc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyWhere is grain and wine?0This 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. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “Give us something to eat and drink.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1642:12e2aqrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simileas they faint like a wounded man0This speaks of the children fainting from hunger and thirst in the same way that a wounded man faints. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
1652:12m2n2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphortheir lives are poured out on the bosom of their mothers0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1662:13rk8sGeneral Information:0# General Information:\n\nThe author begins to address Jerusalem.
1672:13ez4erc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionWhat can I say … Jerusalem?0The author uses this rhetorical question to express that he does not know what to say to help Jerusalem. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “There is nothing that I can say … Jerusalem.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1682:13r825rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationdaughter of Jerusalem … virgin daughter of Zion0These are poetic names for Jerusalem, which is spoken of here as if it were a woman. “Zion” is another name for Jerusalem. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
1692:13yt6jrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionTo what can I compare to you … Zion?0The author uses this rhetorical question to express that he does not know how to give comfort to Jerusalem. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “There is nothing to which I can compare you … Zion.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1702:13xm7jrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simileYour wound is as great as the sea0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
1712:13cfe5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionWho can heal you?0“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. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “No one can heal you.” or “No one can restore you.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1722:14rg7iThey have not exposed your iniquity to restore your fortunes0“They did not tell you about your sins to restore your fortunes.” The word “fortune” refers to a persons wealth and prosperity.
1732:14p4y7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsfor you they gave utterances0The word “utterances” can be expressed with the verb “spoke.” Alternate translation: “they spoke things to you” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1742:15na4vrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symactionclap their hands … hiss and shake their heads0These actions are used to mock and insult others. Alternate translation: “mock you by clapping their hands … hiss and shake their heads” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
1752:15s9nnrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationthe daughter of Jerusalem0This is a poetic name for Jerusalem, which is spoken of here as if it were a woman. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
1762:15cxb8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionIs this the city that they called The Perfection of Beauty, The Joy for All of Earth?0This rhetorical question is used to express sarcasm. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1772:15rkz8The Perfection of Beauty0Alternate translation: “Perfectly Beautiful”
1782:16t9p2rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symactiongrind their teeth0This action shows a persons anger and that they are mocking others. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
1792:16v2edrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorWe have swallowed her up0Here the people speak of destroying Jerusalem as if they were an animal swallowing its food. Alternate translation: “We have completely destroyed Jerusalem” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1802:16p7nlrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomWe have lived to see it0This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “We have greatly desired to see it happen” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1812:17sv6lHe has overthrown0Alternate translation: “He has destroyed”
1822:17l2huto rejoice over you0This means that the enemy rejoiced because they defeated them. Alternate translation: “to rejoice over defeating you”
1832:17b3zbrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyhe has lifted up the horn of your enemies0Here **horn** (that is, an animal horn) represents strength. Alternate translation: “he has increased the power of your enemies” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1842:18v62erc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheTheir heart cried out to the Lord0Here 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
1852:18qsn1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophewalls of the daughter of Zion! Make your tears flow … no relief0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])
1862:18ew4wrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationthe daughter of Zion0This is a poetic name for Jerusalem, which is spoken of here as if it were a woman. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
1872:18mbx5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorMake your tears flow down like a river0This speaks of the people crying so much that their tears would flow like a river. Alternate translation: “Cry many, many tears” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1882:18kbz7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merismday and night0These two opposite times of day refer to all the time. Alternate translation: “all of the time” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
1892:18s698Give yourself no relief, your eyes no relief0Alternate translation: “Do not allow yourself and your eyes to rest from crying”
1902:19t1jsrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostropheArise, cry out … of every street0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-apostrophe]])
1912:19bb9rat the beginning of the night watches0“many times during the night.” This refers to every time a watchman came on duty.
1922:19n8warc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomPour out your heart like water before the face of the Lord0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1932:19ihn4rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symactionLift up your hands to him0This was an action often performed while praying. Alternate translation: “Lift up your hands to him in prayer” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
1942:19xm86rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitfor the lives of your children0This means for them to request that the Lord save their children. Alternate translation: “to save the lives of your children” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1952:19mt5trc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperboleat the corner of every street0The word “every” here is an exaggeration for “many.” Alternate translation: “where the streets come together” or “by the roads” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1962:20tx1src://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionShould women eat the fruit of their wombs … for?0This rhetorical question is asked to emphasize that it is not right for women to eat their children. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “Woman should not eat their own children … for!” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1972:20si6qrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorthe fruit of their wombs0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1982:20iy1mrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionShould priest and prophet be slaughtered in the sanctuary of the Lord?0This rhetorical question is used to emphasize that the prophets and priests should not be killed. If it would be helpful in your language, you could express this question as a statement. Alternate translation: “The prophets and priests should not be slaughtered in the sanctuary of the Lord!” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1992:20e8btrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveShould priest and prophet be slaughtered0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Should our enemies slaughter priests and prophets” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2002:21h93zrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitBoth the young and the old lie on the dust0It 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2012:21bm92rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladjBoth the young and the old0These 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
2022:21hct5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemismMy young women and my young men have fallen by the sword0Here 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
2032:21qu9vrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyyou have slaughtered them0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2042:22re1yrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simileas you would call the people to a feast day0“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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
2052:22bq2qrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymymy terrors0Here the people the author fears are referred to as his “terrors.” Alternate translation: “the attackers I was afraid of” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2062:22d9kyrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomon every side0This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “to attack from every direction” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2072:22vzm7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomon the day of the anger of Yahweh0Here “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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2083:introc5kf0# Lamentations 3 General Notes\n\n## Special concepts in this chapter\n\n### Troubles\n\nHere 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.\n\nIn 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.\n\nIn 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.\n\nIn 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.
2093:1q73vrc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-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://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
2103:1z56prc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorwho has seen misery0Here “has seen” represents has experienced. Alternate translation: “who has experienced misery” or “who has suffered” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2113:1w5zkrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyunder the rod of Yahwehs fury0Being “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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2123:2w3mwHe drove me away0Alternate translation: “He forced me to go away”
2133:2zm2hrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorcaused me to walk in darkness rather than light0Here “darkness” represents suffering. Alternate translation: “caused me to suffer terribly with no hope, like a person walking in darkness rather than light” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2143:3s83drc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyhe turned his hand against me0Here “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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2153:4s5ztHe made my flesh and my skin waste away; he broke my bones0This could mean: (1) these things are a result of being beaten or (2) these are more ways that God punished the man.
2163:5qy5bHe built up siege works against me0Siege works are ramps that an army builds around a city to enable them to climb over the city walls and invade the city.
2173:5jj4erc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorHe built up siege works against me0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2183:5gq5zrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorsurrounded me with bitterness and hardship0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2193:5cn5trc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorbitterness0Here “bitterness” represents suffering. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2203:6vnk1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorHe made me live in dark places, like those who died long ago0Here “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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
2213:7jwk4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorHe built a wall around me and I cannot escape. He made my chains heavy0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2223:8ep5prc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomhe shut out my prayer0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2233:9h2bxrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorHe blocked my path0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2243:9b31la wall of hewn stone0“a wall of cut stones.” People would cut stones into regular shapes that could fit together well in order to build a strong wall.
2253:9ire6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorhe made my paths crooked0Crooked 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2263:10v9qhrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simileHe is like a bear waiting to ambush me, a lion in hiding0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
2273:11m6ywhe turned aside my paths0This could mean: (1) “he dragged me off the path” or (2) “he caused my path to turn in the wrong direction”
2283:11whn1he has made me desolate0Alternate translation: “he has made me hopeless” or “he has not allowed me to have any help”
2293:12pxe7General Information:0# General Information:\n\nGod is often spoken of as if he were a warrior.
2303:12eb1tHe bent his bow0A 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”
2313:13yzp2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorHe pierced my kidneys with the arrows of his quiver0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2323:13aa5frc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphormy kidneys0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2333:13i1usquiver0a bag worn on the back in which to store arrows
2343:14et38rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbolea laughingstock to all my people0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
2353:14gq72laughingstock0someone whom many people mock
2363:15za84rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorHe filled me with bitterness0Here “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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2373:15ncz3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorforced me to drink wormwood0Wormwood 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2383:16b5hhrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorHe has made my teeth grind with gravel0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2393:16l411rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorhe made me cower in the ashes0The author speaks of God humiliating him as if God had pushed him down into the ashes of a fire on the ground. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2403:16tp2gcower0make oneself as small as possible because of fear of something one cannot fight against
2413:17ewh7My soul is deprived of peace0This 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”
2423:18ygy3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationMy endurance has perished and so has my hope in Yahweh0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
2433:18b3vbendurance0Some versions translate this as “glory” or “splendor.”
2443:19zfr6General Information:0# General Information:\n\nIn 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.
2453:19j2d4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doubletwormwood and bitterness0Wormwood is a plant that gives a liquid which is very bitter to drink. Together “wormwood” and “bitterness” represent severe suffering. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2463:20mz9umy soul is bowed down within me0Alternate translation: “I am depressed” or “I am discouraged”
2473:21t4a6But I call this to mind0This 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”
2483:21a2fkI have hope0Alternate translation: “I hope”
2493:22hf5arc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsThe steadfast love of Yahweh never ceases0If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **steadfast love**, you can express the same idea with the phrase “love faithfully.” Alternate translation: “Yahweh never stops loving his people faithfully” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2503:22rs8grc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounshis compassions never end0If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **compassions**, you can express the same idea with a verbal form such as “care.” Alternate translation: “he never stops caring for those who suffer” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2513:23z4xgrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorthey are new every morning0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2523:23dp91your faithfulness0The word “your” refers to Yahweh.
2533:24v6shrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorYahweh is my inheritance0When 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2543:25e8deYahweh is good to those who wait for him0Here “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”
2553:25ju1dthose who wait for him0This could mean: (1) “all those who depend on him” or (2) “the one who waits patiently for him to act.”
2563:25a3kwrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorthe one who seeks him0Here, **seeks him** could mean: (1) asking God for help or (2) wanting to know God. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2573:27xea4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorthat he bear the yoke in his youth0Here “bear the yoke” represents suffering. If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **his youth**, you can express the same idea with another word such as “young.” Alternate translation: “that he suffer while he is young” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2583:28deh5Let him sit alone in silence0The 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”
2593:28wc7prc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorwhen it is laid upon him0“when the yoke is laid upon him.” Here the yoke represents suffering. Alternate translation: “when he suffers” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2603:30t75yGeneral Information:0# General Information:\n\nThe writer speaks of the one who waits for Yahweh ([Lamentations 3:25](../03/25.md)).
2613:30buv3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorLet him offer his cheek to the one who strikes him0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2623:30haw3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorlet him be filled to the full with reproach0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2633:32ytw1though he causes grief0Alternate translation: “though the Lord causes people to suffer” or “though he afflicts people”
2643:32fsq4he will have compassion0Alternate translation: “he will be compassionate to them”
2653:33lh34rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyFor he does not afflict from his heart0Here 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2663:33n5xvrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomthe children of mankind0This refers to people in general. Alternate translation: “human beings” or “people” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2673:34pgn7General Information:0# General Information:\n\nThe 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.
2683:34m7kvrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorTo crush underfoot0Here “crush underfoot” represents abusing and mistreating people. Alternate translation: “To abuse” or “To mistreat” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])-
2693:34kq47To crush0Alternate translation: “If people crush”
2703:35pi2hto deny a man justice0This 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”
2713:35w96nrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyin the presence of the Most High0Doing 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2723:36h9teto deny justice to a person0Here “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”
2733:36kp3sto deny justice0Alternate translation: “if they deny justice”
2743:37vg2nrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionWho has spoken and it came to pass, unless the Lord decreed it?0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2753:37b2terc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicithas spoken0It can be expressed clearly that this refers to commanding something to happen. Alternate translation: “has commanded that something should happen” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2763:37q8z2it came to pass0Alternate translation: “what he said happened”
2773:38hy3krc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyIs it not from the mouth of the Most High that both calamities and the good come?0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2783:38fk6trc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyfrom the mouth of the Most High0Here “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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2793:38wsx5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorboth calamities and the good come0Here “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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
2803:39ttp2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionHow can any person alive complain? How can a person complain about the punishment for his sins?0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2813:39t4dwrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitHow can any person alive complain0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2823:40ap27General Information:0# General Information:\n\nThe 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.
2833:40yx5krc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorlet us return to Yahweh0Here “return to Yahweh” represents submitting to him again. Alternate translation: “let us submit to Yahweh again” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2843:41xq7nrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorLet us lift up our hearts and our hands0Here “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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2853:42j5p1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doubletWe have transgressed and rebelled0The words “transgressed” and “rebelled” share similar meanings. Together they indicate that transgression is the same as rebelling against Yahweh. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
2863:43p547rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorYou have covered yourself with anger0Here 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2873:43e5cgyou have killed0Alternate translation: “you have killed many of us”
2883:43is87rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphoryou have not spared0Here “spared” represents having pity. Alternate translation: “you have not had pity on us” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2893:44c25dConnecting Statement:0# Connecting Statement:\n\nThe prayer that began in [Lamentations 3:42](../03/42.md) continues.
2903:44d6dprc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorYou have covered yourself with a cloud so that no prayer can pass through0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2913:45nmh8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simileYou have made us like filthy scum and refuse among the nations0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
2923:47jdl3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounspanic and pitfall have come upon us, ruin and destruction0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2933:47bm4wpitfall0This refers to falling into a pit. Here it represents being trapped in any way.
2943:47i597have come upon us0Alternate translation: “have happened to us”
2953:47nh6urc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doubletruin and destruction0These two words share similar meanings and refer to the destruction of Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “total destruction” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
2963:48kd2xGeneral Information:0# General Information:\n\nThe author speaks about himself again.
2973:48fl1xrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorMy eyes flow with streams of tears0Here 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
2983:48fg7vrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassivebecause my people are destroyed0This can stated in active form. Alternate translation: “because enemies have destroyed my people” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2993:49ru79rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doubletwithout ceasing, without relief0Both 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
3003:50p99urc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicituntil Yahweh from heaven looks down and sees0What 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
3013:51i8zwrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyMy eyes cause me grief0The phrase “My eyes” represents what he sees. Alternate translation: “What I see causes me to grieve” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
3023:51bz52rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitbecause of all the daughters of my city0It 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
3033:51qr28rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomall the daughters of my city0This could mean: (1) the women of Jerusalem or (2) all the inhabitants of Jerusalem. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
3043:52n4m1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorI have been hunted like a bird by those who were my enemies0The author speaks of people looking for him in order to kill him as if he were an animal that they were hunting. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “My enemies have looked for me in order to kill me like people who hunt for a bird” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
3053:53fen2They cast me into a pit0Alternate translation: “They threw me into a pit” or “They dropped me into a well”
3063:53t9e4threw a stone on me0This could mean: (1) “threw stones down on me” or (2) “covered the pit with a stone”
3073:54ztv4they caused waters to overflow, covering my head0Alternate translation: “the level of the water in the pit rose up over my head”
3083:54hda5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorI have been cut off0Being “cut off” often represents being killed. Here it represents dying very soon. Alternate translation: “I am about to die” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
3093:55dit3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyI called on your name0Gods 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
3103:55r7m3from the depths of the pit0This 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”
3113:56s26crc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyYou heard my voice0Here “voice” represents what he said. Alternate translation: “You heard my words” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
3123:56ur2erc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyDo not close your ear0Here “close your ear” represents refusing to listen. Alternate translation: “Do not refuse to listen” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
3133:57egc5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyYou came near0People often come near to a person they help. Here “came near” represents helping the man. Alternate translation: “you helped me” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
3143:58rq8wrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphoryou defended my case, you saved my life0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
3153:58x4xwrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphoryou defended my case0Here “defended my case” represents arguing for him. Alternate translation: “you argued my case for me” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
3163:59z61erc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorjudge my case0Here 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
3173:61k1lwrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsYou have heard their scorn … and all their plans regarding me0If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **scorn**, you can express the same idea 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
3183:62x6kmrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorThe lips and the accusations … come against me all the day0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
3193:62u23irc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyThe lips … of my enemies0Here the lips represent what his enemies say. Alternate translation: “The words … of my enemies” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
3203:63ti38rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merismhow they sit and then rise up0These two actions together represent everything the people do. Alternate translation: “everything they do” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
3213:64h9mvrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorPay back to them, Yahweh, according to what they have done0Here “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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
3223:65x92mrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyYou will let their hearts be shameless0Here 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
3233:65w3izrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsMay your condemnation be upon them0If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **condemnation**, you can express the same idea with the verbs “condemn” or “curse.” Alternate translation: “Condemn them” or “Curse them” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
3243:66zs3crc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyfrom under the heavens0Here “from under the heavens” represents everywhere on earth. Alternate translation: “wherever they are on earth” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
3254:introv7610# Lamentations 4 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nThe story of Judah being destroyed continues in this chapter. Famine destroyed the rulers and the priests. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/priest]])
3264:1rhc4rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetryGeneral Information:0# General Information:\n\nA new poem begins. See [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]].
3274:1su7trc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorThe gold has become tarnished; how the purest gold has changed0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
3284:1v4ijrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamationshow the purest gold has changed0This is an exclamation that shows the authors sadness that this has happened. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations]])
3294:1d474rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorThe holy stones are scattered at the corner of every street0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
3304:1ild2at the corner of every street0Alternate translation: “wherever the streets come together” or “by all the roads”
3314:2va3jrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorsons of Zion0Here 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
3324:2ld1arc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorthey are worth no more than clay jars, the work of the potters hands0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
3334:3a5ipGeneral Information:0# General Information:\n\nBecause of the lack of food in the city, the people of Jerusalem do not give their children all they need.
3344:3m7cjthe jackals offer the breast to nurse their cubs0This means that mother jackals feed their baby jackals.
3354:3k8ikjackals0fierce wild dogs
3364:3c37lrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-similethe daughter of my people … like the ostriches in the desert0The people in Jerusalem are compared to ostriches because they are cruel to their children. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
3374:3ty21rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymythe daughter of my people has0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
3384:3g4l2ostriches0large birds that abandon some of their eggs
3394:4zp13The tongue of the nursing baby sticks to the roof of his mouth by thirst0Alternate translation: “Nursing babies are so thirsty that their tongues stick to the top of their mouths”
3404:5sft1feast on0Alternate translation: “eat much”
3414:5p6wjnow starve in the streets0These people no longer have homes, so they live outside along the streets.
3424:5sg4zrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveThose who were brought up wearing scarlet clothing0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “those who grew up wearing scarlet clothing” or “those who wore scarlet clothing when they were growing up” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
3434:5xp9mrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyscarlet clothing0Here 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
3444:5l3s2now lie on piles of ashes0This is because they no longer have homes and soft beds.
3454:6nw5sThe punishment of the daughter of my people is greater than that of Sodom0If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **punishment**, you can express the same idea with the verb “punish.” Alternate translation: “The daughter of my people has been punished more severely than Sodom was punished”
3464:6ef77rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymythe daughter of my people0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
3474:6l7zsrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassivewhich was overthrown in a moment0The word “which” refers to Sodom. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “which God destroyed in a moment” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
3484:6xk36rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveno hands were wrung for her0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “no one wrung their hands for her” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
3494:6wg9erc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyno hands were wrung for her0People 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
3504:7gvp4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorHer leaders were purer than snow, whiter than milk0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
3514:7wu6dHer leaders0Alternate translation: “Jerusalems leaders”
3524:7cw2zrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicittheir bodies were more ruddy than coral0“their bodies were redder than coral.” This implies that they were healthy. Alternate translation: “their bodies were healthy and red” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
3534:7a385coral0a rock-hard red substance that comes from the ocean and was used for making decorations
3544:7b9btsapphire0a costly blue stone used in jewelry
3554:8i6jnTheir appearance now is darker than soot0This 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.
3564:8es9arc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassivethey are not recognized0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “no one can recognize them” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
3574:8hhs8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitTheir skin has shriveled on their bones0This implies that there was not much muscle or fat under the skin. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
3584:8asf7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simileit has become as dry as wood0Their dry skin is compared to dry wood. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
3594:9ke6frc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyThose who have been killed by the sword0Here the “sword” represents an enemys attack. It can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Those whom enemy soldiers have killed” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
3604:9k4rkrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymythose killed by hunger0Here “hunger” represents starvation. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “those who starved to death” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
3614:9zt2wwho wasted away0Alternate translation: “who became extremely thin and weak”
3624:9s8errc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymypierced by the lack of any harvest from the field0Here “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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
3634:10sfz2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheThe hands of compassionate women0Here 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
3644:10e7bmthey became their food0Alternate translation: “their children became the womens food”
3654:10bac1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymythe daughter of my people was0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
3664:11i5ysrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismYahweh showed all his wrath; he poured out his fierce anger0Yahweh was very angry, and he did everything he wanted to do to show that he was angry. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
3674:11xr4zrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorhe poured out his fierce anger0Gods 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
3684:11tc8vrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyHe kindled a fire in Zion0This represents God causing Israels enemies to start a fire in Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “He caused a fire to start in Zion” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
3694:11ml4mrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdochethat consumed her foundations0Here “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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
3704:12qvf1The kings of the earth did not believe, nor did any of the inhabitants of the world believe,0Alternate translation: “The kings of the earth and the rest of the inhabitants of the world did not believe”
3714:12iy64rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doubletenemies or opponents0These 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
3724:13pz3yrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismthe sins of her prophets and the iniquities of her priests0These 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
3734:13t6hnrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymywho have shed the blood of the righteous0Both the priests and the prophets were guilty of murder. Here “shed the blood” represents murder. Alternate translation: “who have murdered the righteous” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
3744:14ah77rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorThey wandered, blind, through the streets0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
3754:14b7tirc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorThey were so defiled by that blood0Here “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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
3764:14dpi8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymydefiled by that blood0“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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
3774:15qtp2Away! Unclean0Alternate translation: “Go away! You are unclean”
3784:15uf2cAway! Away! Do not touch0Alternate translation: “Go away! Go away! Do not touch us”
3794:16s74rscattered them0Alternate translation: “scattered the prophets and priests”
3804:16a7ifrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyhe does not watch over them anymore0Here “watch over them” represents being concerned about them and helping them. Alternate translation: “he does not care about them anymore” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
3814:17j6acrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyOur eyes failed, looking in vain for help0Their 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
3824:17gw6xrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsfor help0If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind the word **help**, you can express the same idea with a verbal form. Alternate translation: “for people to help us” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
3834:17ep11in vain0without succeeding
3844:17j62qrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorwe watched for a nation that could not rescue us0Here “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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
3854:18ah5mrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyThey followed our steps0Here “our steps” represents where they went. Alternate translation: “Our enemies followed us everywhere we went” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
3864:18sgr6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorOur end was near0Here “near” is a metaphor for “soon.” Alternate translation: “Our end would be soon” or “Our enemies would soon destroy us” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
3874:18g9cvrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitOur end0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
3884:18m59prc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorour days were numbered0Being numbered represents being so few that they could be easily counted. Alternate translation: “we had very little time” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
3894:18knb5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorour end had come0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
3904:19a693rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simileOur pursuers were swifter than the eagles in the sky0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
3914:19q2y4lay in wait for us0Alternate translation: “waited to attack us”
3924:20k8w6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorhe was the one who was captured in their pits0Here “pits” refers to the enemies plans to capture him. If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
3934:20l1a8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguishof whom it was said0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
3944:20d6rlrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorUnder his shadow we will live among the nations0Here “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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
3954:21x8qprc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doubletRejoice and be glad0“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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])
3964:21k5q4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationdaughter of Edom0The people of the land of Edom are spoken of as if they were a woman. They were Israels enemy. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
3974:21d53prc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorBut to you also the cup will be passed0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
3984:22i7ubrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationDaughter of Zion0The people of Jerusalem are spoken of as if they were a woman. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])\
3994:22y3murc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsyour punishment will come to an end0“your punishment will end.” The abstract noun punishment can be expressed with the verb “punish.” Alternate translation: “Yahweh will stop punishing you” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
4004:22jt3ihe will not extend your exile0Alternate translation: “Yahweh will not make your time in exile longer” or “Yahweh will not make you stay in exile longer”
4014:22c3znrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorhe will uncover your sins0Here 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
4025:introsi980# Lamentations 5 General Notes\n\n## Structure and formatting\n\nJudah was destroyed for her sin. As slaves, life was very hard. The author wondered if God would be angry forever. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/eternity]])
4035:1hj48rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetryGeneral Information:0# General Information:\n\nA new poem begins. See [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-poetry]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]].
4045:1a5gvrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomRemember, Yahweh, what has happened to us0“Remember” here is an idiom. Alternate translation: “Yahweh, think about what has happened to us” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
4055:1q2dvlook and see our disgrace0Alternate translation: “look at the shameful state we are in”
4065:2iwh9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveOur inheritance has been turned over to strangers; our houses to foreigners0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
4075:3ijy8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorWe have become orphans … our mothers are like widows0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
4085:3alg7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismorphans, the fatherless0These 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
4095:4b28prc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitWe must pay silver for the water we drink … our own wood0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
4105:4it5lrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassivewe must pay silver to get our own wood0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “our enemies sell us our own wood” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
4115:5a9sxThose who are coming after us0“Our enemies who are chasing after us.” This refers to the Babylonian army.
4125:5nf7crc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorwe can find no rest0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
4135:6ysv9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomWe have given ourselves to Egypt and to Assyria to get enough food0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
4145:7ecx8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemismthey are no more0This refers to them being dead. Alternate translation: “they have died” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
4155:7zhr6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymywe bear their iniquities0Here “iniquities” represents the punishment received because of their ancestors sins. Alternate translation: “we bear the punishment for their sins” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
4165:8em5urc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitSlaves rule over us0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
4175:8ku5lrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyto deliver us from their hand0Here the word “hand” refers to control. Alternate translation: “to rescue us from their control” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
4185:9nl6vrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymybread0Here “bread” refers to food in general. Alternate translation: “food” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
4195:9uiq1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymybecause of the sword in the wilderness0Here robbers with swords are represented by their “swords.” Alternate translation: “because there are robbers in the wilderness who kill others with swords” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
4205:10r3jfrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simileOur skin has grown as hot as an oven because of the burning heat of hunger0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
4215:11z35xrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismWomen are raped in Zion, and virgins in the cities of Judah0These 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
4225:11y3merc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveWomen are raped … and virgins0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “Our enemies have raped the women … and the virgins” or “Our enemies have violated the women … and the virgins” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
4235:12zb12Princes are hung up by their own hands0This 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.
4245:12g7iqrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveno honor is shown to the elders0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “they have shown no honor to the elders” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
4255:13f7ubrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveYoung men are forced0If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “They force young men” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
4265:13fzz3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitboys stagger under heavy loads of wood0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
4275:14ji4xthe city gate0This is where the elders would give legal advice, but also where people would meet socially.
4285:14j6xcrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorthe young men have left their music0Playing 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
4295:15l248rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheThe joy of our heart0Here the word “heart” refers to the whole person and emphasizes their emotions. Alternate translation: “Our joy” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
4305:16j13src://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyThe crown has fallen from our head0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
4315:17gbn4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyFor this our heart has become sick0The “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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
4325:17tqx4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitfor these things our eyes grow dim0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
4335:18p4v1for Mount Zion lies desolate0Here “Mount Zion” refers to Jerusalem. The phrase “lies desolate” means that no one lives there.
4345:18i8usjackals0These are fierce wild dogs. See how you translated this in [Lamentations 4:3](../04/03.md).
4355:19x9jhrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymysit upon your throne0Here sitting on the throne represents ruling as king. Alternate translation: “rule as king” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
4365:19bv71rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomfrom generation to generation0This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “always” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
4375:20kf3src://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionWhy do you forget us forever? Why do you forsake us for the length of your days?0The 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
4385:20yr7crc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomfor the length of your days0Here 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
4395:21igv8Restore us to yourself0Alternate translation: “Bring us back to yourself”
4405:22bh9wunless you have utterly rejected us and you are angry with us beyond measure0This 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.
4415:22x3adrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypoare angry with us beyond measure0This 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://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])