Lamentations 5:6

We submitted to Egypt and Assyria to get enough bread.

Study Bible

We submitted to Egypt and Assyria
This phrase reflects the historical context of Judah's political alliances and subjugation. Egypt and Assyria were two dominant powers during the time of the prophets. Historically, Judah often sought alliances with these nations for protection against other threats, such as Babylon. This submission indicates a reliance on foreign powers rather than trusting in God, which was a recurring issue for Israel and Judah. Biblically, this is seen as a failure to heed the warnings of prophets like Isaiah and Jeremiah, who cautioned against such alliances (Isaiah 30:1-3, Jeremiah 2:18). Theologically, this submission can be seen as a metaphor for spiritual unfaithfulness, as Israel was called to rely solely on God.

to get enough bread
This phrase highlights the dire economic and social conditions faced by the people of Judah. Bread, a staple of the ancient Near Eastern diet, symbolizes basic sustenance and survival. The need to submit to foreign powers for food underscores the severity of the famine and deprivation experienced during and after the Babylonian siege. This situation fulfills the curses outlined in Deuteronomy 28:48, where disobedience to God would lead to serving enemies in hunger and thirst. Theologically, it points to the consequences of turning away from God, as reliance on Him was meant to provide for all needs (Psalm 37:25). In a typological sense, Jesus Christ is seen as the "bread of life" (John 6:35), offering spiritual sustenance and fulfillment that earthly powers cannot provide.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
Traditionally considered the author of Lamentations, Jeremiah was a prophet who warned Judah of impending judgment due to their disobedience to God.

2. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, which faced destruction and exile due to its persistent idolatry and rebellion against God.

3. Egypt
A neighboring nation to the south of Judah, often seen as a place of refuge or alliance in times of trouble, but also a symbol of reliance on human strength rather than God.

4. Assyria
A powerful empire to the north, known for its military might and oppression of smaller nations, including Israel and Judah.

5. Exile
The event of Judah's captivity and removal from their land, a consequence of their failure to follow God's covenant.

Teaching Points

Reliance on God vs. Human Alliances
The verse highlights the danger of relying on human alliances instead of trusting in God. Judah's submission to Egypt and Assyria was a desperate attempt to secure basic needs, but it ultimately led to further bondage and suffering.

Consequences of Disobedience
The historical context of Lamentations 5:6 serves as a reminder of the consequences of turning away from God's commands. It underscores the importance of obedience and faithfulness to God's covenant.

Spiritual Hunger and Provision
Just as Judah sought bread from foreign nations, we must recognize our spiritual hunger and seek sustenance from God alone, who provides for our needs.

Repentance and Restoration
The lament in Lamentations calls for repentance and a return to God. It encourages believers to examine their lives and turn back to God for restoration and healing.

Bible Study Questions

1. What are some modern-day "Egypts" or "Assyrias" that we might be tempted to rely on instead of God? How can we guard against this tendency?

2. How does the historical context of Judah's alliances with Egypt and Assyria inform our understanding of the consequences of disobedience to God?

3. In what ways can we ensure that our spiritual hunger is satisfied by God rather than seeking fulfillment in worldly sources?

4. How does the theme of repentance in Lamentations 5:6 apply to our personal lives and our relationship with God today?

5. Can you identify other biblical instances where reliance on human strength led to downfall? How do these examples reinforce the message of Lamentations 5:6?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 30:1-3
This passage warns against forming alliances with Egypt, highlighting the futility of relying on human powers instead of trusting in God.

2 Kings 17:3-6
Describes the Assyrian conquest of Israel, illustrating the consequences of seeking help from foreign powers rather than God.

Deuteronomy 28:47-48
Outlines the curses for disobedience, including serving foreign nations, which is a backdrop for the lament in Lamentations.