Lamentations 2:12

They cry out to their mothers: "Where is the grain and wine?" as they faint like the wounded in the streets of the city, as their lives fade away in the arms of their mothers.

Study Bible

They cry out to their mothers
This phrase captures the heart-wrenching image of children in distress, seeking comfort and sustenance from their mothers. In the Hebrew context, the word "cry" (זָעַק, za'aq) often denotes a loud, desperate call for help. This reflects the dire situation in Jerusalem during the Babylonian siege, where the natural order of family care is disrupted by extreme famine and suffering. The maternal bond is highlighted here, emphasizing the deep emotional pain experienced by both the children and their mothers.

'Where is the bread and wine?'
Bread and wine are staples of sustenance and symbolize life and celebration in Jewish culture. The absence of these essentials during the siege signifies not only physical deprivation but also a loss of joy and normalcy. The Hebrew word for bread (לֶחֶם, lechem) and wine (יַיִן, yayin) are often used in scripture to represent God's provision and blessing. Their absence underscores the severity of God's judgment on Jerusalem, as the people experience the consequences of their disobedience.

as they faint like the wounded in the streets of the city
The imagery of fainting like the wounded conveys the extreme weakness and vulnerability of the children. The Hebrew word for "faint" (עָטַף, ataph) can also mean to be overwhelmed or to swoon, indicating a complete lack of strength. The comparison to the wounded suggests that the children are casualties of the siege, suffering as if they were physically attacked. This highlights the indiscriminate nature of the calamity, affecting even the most innocent.

as their lives fade away in the arms of their mothers
This poignant image of life fading away in a mother's arms evokes a deep sense of tragedy and helplessness. The Hebrew word for "fade away" (שָׁפַךְ, shaphak) can mean to pour out or to spill, suggesting a life that is slipping away uncontrollably. The arms of the mothers, typically a place of safety and nurture, become a place of sorrow and loss. This underscores the complete breakdown of societal and familial structures under the weight of divine judgment.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Children of Jerusalem
The verse depicts the suffering of the children during the siege of Jerusalem, highlighting their desperate cries for sustenance.

2. Mothers
The mothers are portrayed as helpless witnesses to their children's suffering, unable to provide for their basic needs.

3. Streets of the City
The streets of Jerusalem serve as the setting for this tragic scene, emphasizing the widespread devastation and despair.

4. Siege of Jerusalem
This event refers to the Babylonian siege that led to the destruction of Jerusalem in 586 BC, a pivotal moment in Jewish history.

5. Prophet Jeremiah
Traditionally attributed as the author of Lamentations, Jeremiah laments the destruction and suffering of his people.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Disobedience
Lamentations 2:12 serves as a stark reminder of the severe consequences of turning away from God. It calls believers to examine their own lives for areas of disobedience and to seek repentance.

The Depth of Human Suffering
This verse vividly portrays the depth of human suffering and the impact of sin on innocent lives. It encourages Christians to have compassion for those in distress and to be active in providing relief and support.

The Role of Lament in Faith
Lamentations teaches that it is acceptable to bring our sorrows and questions before God. It encourages believers to express their grief and seek comfort in God's presence.

Hope Amidst Despair
While the verse depicts despair, the broader message of Lamentations points to hope in God's faithfulness. Believers are reminded to trust in God's promises even in the darkest times.

The Importance of Community Support
The imagery of children crying out to their mothers highlights the need for community and family support during crises. Christians are called to be a source of strength and encouragement to one another.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Lamentations 2:12 illustrate the consequences of Israel's disobedience to God, and what lessons can we learn about obedience in our own lives?

2. In what ways can we, as a church community, respond to the suffering and needs of those around us, as depicted in this verse?

3. How does the theme of lament in Lamentations help us understand the role of expressing grief and seeking God during difficult times?

4. What parallels can you draw between the suffering described in Lamentations and the tribulations mentioned in the New Testament, such as in Matthew 24 or Revelation 18?

5. How can we find hope and assurance in God's faithfulness amidst the despair and suffering depicted in Lamentations 2:12?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 28
This chapter outlines the curses for disobedience to God's covenant, including famine and siege, which are realized in Lamentations.

Jeremiah 19
Jeremiah prophesies the coming destruction of Jerusalem, which is fulfilled in the events described in Lamentations.

Psalm 137
This psalm reflects the sorrow and longing of the exiled Israelites, similar to the lament in Lamentations.

Matthew 24
Jesus speaks of future tribulations, echoing the themes of suffering and desolation found in Lamentations.

Revelation 18
The fall of Babylon in Revelation parallels the fall of Jerusalem, symbolizing divine judgment.