Lamentations 1:21

People have heard my groaning, but there is no one to comfort me. All my enemies have heard of my trouble; they are glad that You have caused it. May You bring the day You have announced, so that they may become like me.

Study Bible

They have heard my groaning
The Hebrew word for "groaning" is "אָנַח" (anach), which conveys a deep, mournful sigh or lament. This word captures the profound sorrow and distress of Jerusalem, personified as a woman in mourning. Historically, this reflects the period after the Babylonian conquest, where the cries of the people were audible, yet their suffering was met with indifference. Theologically, it underscores the human condition of suffering and the need for divine intervention, reminding believers that God hears their cries even when others do not.

but there is no one to comfort me
The absence of comforters highlights the isolation and abandonment felt by Jerusalem. The Hebrew root "נָחַם" (nacham) for "comfort" suggests consolation and relief. In the context of Lamentations, this absence signifies the complete desolation and the failure of allies and friends to provide solace. This phrase serves as a poignant reminder of the ultimate comfort found in God alone, as human sources of comfort can fail.

All my enemies have heard of my trouble
The word "enemies" in Hebrew is "אוֹיֵב" (oyev), indicating adversaries or those who oppose. The historical context here is the surrounding nations that witnessed Jerusalem's downfall. Theologically, this reflects the reality of spiritual warfare and the presence of adversaries in the life of believers. It serves as a call to trust in God's justice and sovereignty, even when enemies seem to triumph.

they are glad that You have done it
This phrase reveals the malicious joy of the enemies over Jerusalem's plight. Theologically, it raises questions about divine justice and the role of God in the suffering of His people. The acknowledgment that God has allowed this calamity serves as a reminder of His ultimate control over history and His purposes, even in judgment. It challenges believers to trust in God's righteous plans, even when they are difficult to understand.

May You bring the day You have announced
The "day" refers to a future time of reckoning or judgment. The Hebrew word "יוֹם" (yom) often signifies a significant period or event. This plea for divine intervention reflects a hope for restoration and justice. It is a call for God to fulfill His promises, reminding believers of the eschatological hope in God's ultimate redemption and the establishment of His kingdom.

so they may become like me
This phrase expresses a desire for the enemies to experience the same suffering and judgment. It reflects the principle of divine retribution, where justice is meted out according to one's actions. In a broader theological sense, it underscores the biblical theme of sowing and reaping, and the assurance that God will right all wrongs. It encourages believers to leave vengeance to God and trust in His perfect justice.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
- Traditionally attributed as the author of Lamentations, Jeremiah is known as the "weeping prophet" who lamented the destruction of Jerusalem.

2. Jerusalem
- The city that has been destroyed, representing the suffering and desolation of the people of Judah.

3. Enemies of Jerusalem
- Nations and peoples who opposed Jerusalem and rejoiced in its downfall.

4. God
- The sovereign being who has allowed the destruction as a consequence of the people's disobedience.

5. The Day Announced
- Refers to the prophesied day of judgment and restoration, a theme throughout prophetic literature.

Teaching Points

The Reality of Suffering
Lamentations 1:21 highlights the deep suffering and isolation felt by Jerusalem. It is a reminder that suffering is a part of the human experience, and it often feels as though there is no one to comfort us.

The Response of Enemies
The verse shows that enemies may rejoice in our downfall. This serves as a reminder to guard our hearts against schadenfreude and to pray for those who persecute us, as Jesus taught.

Divine Justice and Hope
The plea for God to bring the day He has announced reflects a hope in divine justice. Believers are encouraged to trust in God's ultimate plan and justice, even when it seems delayed.

The Role of Lament in Faith
Lament is a valid and important expression of faith. It allows believers to bring their pain and questions before God, trusting in His sovereignty and compassion.

Empathy and Comfort
As Christians, we are called to be sources of comfort to those who are suffering, reflecting God's love and compassion in tangible ways.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the lament in Lamentations 1:21 reflect the broader themes of the book, and what can we learn about expressing our own grief to God?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we do not become like the enemies who rejoice at others' misfortunes, as described in this verse?

3. How does the hope for the "day You have announced" in Lamentations 1:21 connect to the Christian hope for Christ's return and final judgment?

4. What practical steps can we take to be a source of comfort to those who feel isolated and without comfort, as Jerusalem did?

5. How can the practice of lament deepen our relationship with God and enhance our understanding of His justice and mercy?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 9:1
- Jeremiah's lamentation over the sins and impending judgment of his people, similar to the themes in Lamentations.

Psalm 137
- A psalm of lament that expresses the sorrow of the Israelites during the Babylonian exile.

Revelation 18
- The fall of Babylon, which echoes the themes of judgment and rejoicing by enemies seen in Lamentations.

Isaiah 61:2
- The proclamation of the year of the Lord's favor and the day of vengeance, connecting to the hope for divine justice.

Matthew 5:4
- Jesus' teaching on those who mourn being comforted, offering a New Testament perspective on divine comfort.