Lamentations 5:10

Our skin is as hot as an oven with fever from our hunger.

Study Bible

Our skin
The Hebrew word for "skin" is "עוֹר" (or), which refers to the outer covering of the body. In the context of Lamentations, the physical condition of the people reflects their dire circumstances. The skin, often a symbol of health and vitality, here becomes a testament to suffering and distress. This imagery underscores the severity of the famine, as the very bodies of the people bear witness to their plight. In a broader biblical context, skin can also symbolize vulnerability and exposure, reminding us of the fragility of human life without divine sustenance.

is as hot as an oven
The comparison to an "oven" (תַּנּוּר, tannur in Hebrew) evokes the intense and consuming nature of the suffering experienced. Ovens in ancient times were used for baking and required significant heat, symbolizing the extreme conditions faced by the people. This metaphor not only conveys physical discomfort but also suggests a refining process, where intense heat is necessary to purify and transform. Spiritually, this can be seen as a call to endure trials with faith, trusting that God can bring about growth and renewal through suffering.

because of the burning heat of famine
The "burning heat" (לַהַב, lahab) of "famine" (רָעָב, raav) paints a vivid picture of the desperation and life-threatening conditions faced by the inhabitants of Jerusalem. Famine in the Bible often signifies divine judgment or a call to repentance, as seen in various Old Testament narratives. Historically, famine was a common consequence of siege warfare, which the city of Jerusalem experienced during the Babylonian conquest. This phrase serves as a reminder of the consequences of turning away from God, yet it also offers hope that through repentance and reliance on God, restoration is possible. The burning heat, while destructive, can also be a purifying force, urging the faithful to seek God's mercy and provision.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
- Traditionally attributed as the author of Lamentations, Jeremiah is known as the "weeping prophet." He laments the destruction of Jerusalem and the suffering of its people.

2. Jerusalem
- The city that has been destroyed by the Babylonians, leading to the suffering and lamentation described in the book.

3. Babylonian Exile
- The event during which the people of Judah were taken captive by the Babylonians, resulting in the desolation and famine described in Lamentations.

4. Famine
- A severe lack of food that has caused extreme suffering and is metaphorically described as causing the skin to be "as hot as an oven."

5. The People of Judah
- The community experiencing the consequences of their disobedience to God, leading to their suffering and exile.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Disobedience
The suffering described in Lamentations 5:10 is a direct result of the people's disobedience to God. This serves as a reminder of the serious consequences that can follow when we turn away from God's commands.

The Reality of Suffering
The vivid imagery of skin as hot as an oven due to famine illustrates the intense suffering experienced by the people. It reminds us that suffering is a real and painful part of the human experience.

The Call to Repentance
The lamentations of Jeremiah call the people to recognize their sin and turn back to God. In our own lives, we are called to examine our hearts and repent of any disobedience.

Hope in God's Faithfulness
Despite the dire circumstances, the book of Lamentations ultimately points to the hope found in God's faithfulness and mercy. We are encouraged to trust in God's promises even in times of suffering.

Empathy and Compassion
Understanding the depth of suffering described in Lamentations can cultivate empathy and compassion in us for those who are experiencing similar hardships today.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the imagery of "skin as hot as an oven" help us understand the severity of the famine described in Lamentations 5:10?

2. In what ways does the suffering of the people in Lamentations reflect the consequences outlined in Deuteronomy 28?

3. How can we apply the call to repentance found in Lamentations to our own lives today?

4. What are some ways we can find hope in God's faithfulness during times of personal or communal suffering?

5. How can the empathy we gain from studying Lamentations influence our actions towards those who are suffering in our communities?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 28
This chapter outlines the blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, including famine, which connects to the suffering described in Lamentations.

Jeremiah 14
This passage also describes a time of drought and famine, highlighting the ongoing consequences of the people's sin and rebellion against God.

Psalm 102
A psalm of lament that expresses personal and communal suffering, similar to the themes found in Lamentations.