Biblical Reference:
The account of Jesus speaking to the Daughters of Jerusalem is found in the Gospel of Luke, specifically in Luke 23:27-31. This passage occurs during the events leading up to the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.

Context and Setting:
As Jesus was led away to be crucified, a large crowd followed Him, including women who mourned and lamented for Him. These women, referred to as the "Daughters of Jerusalem," were likely residents of the city who expressed their sorrow over the fate of Jesus. This moment is part of the Via Dolorosa, the path Jesus walked on His way to Golgotha.

Scriptural Account (Luke 23:27-31):
"A great number of people followed Him, including women who kept mourning and wailing for Him. But Jesus turned to them and said, 'Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for Me, but weep for yourselves and for your children. For behold, the days are coming when people will say, "Blessed are the barren, the wombs that never bore and the breasts that never nursed!" Then 'they will say to the mountains, "Fall on us!" and to the hills, "Cover us!" For if men do these things while the tree is green, what will happen when it is dry?'"

Interpretation and Significance:
In this poignant address, Jesus shifts the focus from His own suffering to the impending judgment and suffering that would come upon Jerusalem. His words are prophetic, foretelling the destruction of Jerusalem in A.D. 70 by the Romans. The imagery of barren women being considered blessed and the call for mountains to fall on the people underscores the severity of the coming tribulation.

Jesus' statement, "For if men do these things while the tree is green, what will happen when it is dry?" serves as a metaphorical warning. The "green tree" symbolizes a time of opportunity and life, possibly referring to Jesus' presence and ministry. The "dry tree" suggests a time of judgment and desolation, indicating the spiritual barrenness and rejection of the Messiah by the people.

Theological Implications:
This passage highlights Jesus' role as a prophet, warning of future events and calling for repentance. It underscores the theme of judgment that runs throughout the Scriptures, reminding believers of the consequences of rejecting God's salvation. The lamentation of the Daughters of Jerusalem serves as a reminder of the compassion and sorrow that should accompany the recognition of sin and its consequences.

Historical and Cultural Context:
In Jewish culture, women often participated in public mourning, especially during times of national tragedy or personal loss. The presence of these women reflects the widespread impact of Jesus' ministry and the deep sorrow felt by many at His impending death. Their mourning, however, is redirected by Jesus to a more profound spiritual concern for the future of their people.

Application for Believers:
This passage calls Christians to reflect on the seriousness of sin and the importance of heeding Christ's warnings. It encourages believers to maintain a posture of repentance and to be mindful of the spiritual state of their communities. The words of Jesus to the Daughters of Jerusalem serve as a timeless reminder of the need for vigilance and faithfulness in the face of coming trials and tribulations.