All who pass by clap their hands at you in scorn. They hiss and shake their heads at the Daughter of Jerusalem: "Is this the city that was called the perfection of beauty, the joy of all the earth?" All who pass byThis phrase indicates the universal nature of the scorn directed at Jerusalem. In the Hebrew text, the word "all" (כָּל, kol) emphasizes the totality of those witnessing Jerusalem's downfall. Historically, Jerusalem was a city of great significance, and its destruction was a public spectacle. The phrase suggests that the city's fall was not only a local tragedy but a matter of international observation, reflecting the widespread impact of God's judgment. clap their hands at you they scoff and shake their heads at the Daughter of Jerusalem Is this the city that was called the perfection of beauty the joy of the whole earth Persons / Places / Events 1. Daughter of JerusalemThis term refers to the inhabitants of Jerusalem, personified as a daughter. It highlights the intimate relationship between God and His people, as well as the city's vulnerability and suffering. 2. Passersby These are the people from surrounding nations who witness the destruction of Jerusalem. Their reactions of mockery and derision underscore the city's fallen state. 3. Jerusalem The capital city of Judah, known for its beauty and significance as the center of worship for the Israelites. Its destruction is a central theme in Lamentations. 4. The Destruction of Jerusalem This event, occurring in 586 BC at the hands of the Babylonians, is the backdrop for the book of Lamentations. It represents a period of intense suffering and reflection for the Jewish people. 5. The Prophets Although not directly mentioned in this verse, the prophets, including Jeremiah, warned of Jerusalem's impending doom due to the people's disobedience to God. Teaching Points The Consequences of DisobedienceThe destruction of Jerusalem serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of turning away from God. It calls us to examine our own lives and ensure we are walking in obedience to His commands. The Reality of Judgment God's judgment is real and just. While His patience is great, persistent rebellion leads to consequences. This should instill a healthy fear of the Lord and a desire to live righteously. The Pain of Mockery The mockery from passersby highlights the pain of public shame and humiliation. As believers, we should be sensitive to the suffering of others and offer compassion rather than judgment. Hope for Restoration Despite the devastation, there is always hope for restoration. God's promises of redemption and renewal are available to those who turn back to Him with sincere hearts. The Importance of Intercession Just as the prophets interceded for Jerusalem, we are called to pray for our communities and nations, seeking God's mercy and intervention in times of crisis. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the description of Jerusalem in Lamentations 2:15 compare to its portrayal in other parts of the Bible, such as Psalm 48?2. What lessons can we learn from the reactions of the passersby, and how can we apply these lessons in our interactions with others who are suffering? 3. In what ways does the destruction of Jerusalem serve as a warning for us today regarding the consequences of disobedience to God? 4. How can we find hope and encouragement in the midst of judgment and suffering, as seen in the book of Lamentations? 5. What role does intercession play in seeking God's mercy for our communities, and how can we actively engage in this practice? Connections to Other Scriptures Psalm 48This psalm describes Jerusalem as the "joy of the whole earth," highlighting the stark contrast between its former glory and its current desolation as described in Lamentations 2:15. Isaiah 64 This chapter includes a plea for God to remember His people and restore Jerusalem, reflecting the deep longing for redemption and restoration. Matthew 23 Jesus laments over Jerusalem, echoing the sorrow and compassion found in Lamentations, and foreshadowing future judgment due to the city's rejection of Him.
People Jacob, JeremiahPlaces Jerusalem, ZionTopics Along, Beautiful, Beauty, Clap, Clapped, Crown, Daughter, Derision, Hands, Heads, Hiss, Hissed, Hisses, Jerusalem, Joy, Noise, Pass, Passing, Perfection, Saying, Scoff, Shake, Shaking, Town, WagDictionary of Bible Themes Lamentations 2:15 4040 beauty 5550 speech, negative Library Watch-Night Service"Ye virgin souls, arise! With all the dead awake; Unto salvation wise; Oil in your vessels take: Upstarting at the MIDNIGHT CRY, Behold Your heavenly bridegroom nigh." Two brethren then offered prayer for the Church and the World, that the new year might be clothed with glory by the spread of the knowledge of Jesus.--Then followed the EXPOSITION Psalm 90:1-22 "Lord, thou hast been our dwelling place in all generations. Yea Jehovah, WE, they children, can say that thou hast been our home, our safe … Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 2: 1856 Chel. The Court of the Women. Appendix ix. List of Old Testament Passages Messianically Applied in Ancient Rabbinic Writings Departure from Ireland. Death and Burial at Clairvaux. That the Ruler Should be Discreet in Keeping Silence, Profitable in Speech. Lii. Concerning Hypocrisy, Worldly Anxiety, Watchfulness, and his Approaching Passion. Lamentations Links Lamentations 2:15 NIVLamentations 2:15 NLT Lamentations 2:15 ESV Lamentations 2:15 NASB Lamentations 2:15 KJV Lamentations 2:15 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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