Lamentations 4:4 Meaning

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Chapter

Lamentations 1 Lamentations 2 Lamentations 3 Lamentations 4 Lamentations 5

Verse

Lamentations 4:1 Lamentations 4:2 Lamentations 4:3 Lamentations 4:4 Lamentations 4:5 Lamentations 4:6 Lamentations 4:7 Lamentations 4:8 Lamentations 4:9 Lamentations 4:10 Lamentations 4:11 Lamentations 4:12 Lamentations 4:13 Lamentations 4:14 Lamentations 4:15 Lamentations 4:16 Lamentations 4:17 Lamentations 4:18 Lamentations 4:19 Lamentations 4:20 Lamentations 4:21 Lamentations 4:22

What is the meaning of Lamentations 4:4?

The tongue of the sucking child cleaveth to the roof of his mouth for thirst: the young children ask bread, and no man breaketh it unto them.

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Lamentations 4:4 Bible Verse Meaning

Lamentations 4:4 - Understanding the Bible Verse

Bible Verse: Lamentations 4:4 - "The tongue of the sucking child cleaves to the roof of his mouth for thirst: the young children ask bread, and no man breaketh it unto them."

Verse Meaning Overview

This verse illustrates the dire circumstances faced by the people of Jerusalem during the Babylonian siege. The imagery of thirsty children unable to receive nourishment evokes deep sorrow and highlights the severity of famine and suffering. The verse serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences of sin and disobedience against God’s covenant.

Bible Verse Commentary Insights

  • Matthew Henry:

    Henry emphasizes the despair of the children, whose basic needs are unmet. Their cries for bread go unheard, illustrating the breakdown of social and familial systems during calamity.

  • Albert Barnes:

    Barnes notes that this verse depicts not only physical starvation but also the emotional anguish of parents who cannot care for their offspring. It reflects the greater reality of divine judgment upon a wayward nation.

  • Adam Clarke:

    Clarke highlights the severity of the conditions, pointing out how the dire need for food leads to an unsettling imagery of helplessness, as even the youngest are not spared from suffering.

In-Depth Analysis

The lamentation in this verse conveys not just a physical reality but also a spiritual one. Throughout history, hunger has often been tied to God’s punishment and the consequences of turning away from Him. The imagery conveys a multifaceted understanding of divine judgment.

Cross References

  • Jeremiah 14:1-6: Discusses drought and famine affecting the land.
  • Ezekiel 4:16-17: Highlights famine as part of God’s judgment.
  • Isaiah 9:20: Mentions societal breakdown leading to chaos and suffering.

Application and Relevance

This verse encourages readers to reflect on their spiritual state and the importance of caring for the vulnerable among us. It calls for compassion and reminds us of the necessity of nurturing both physical and spiritual needs in society.

Conclusion

Understanding Lamentations 4:4 through the lens of these prominent commentaries opens up avenues for deeper insights about God’s expectations and human suffering. This verse serves as a call to action for believers to support those in need and foster an understanding that leads to compassion in times of crisis.

Lamentations 4 (KJV) Verse Selection

Lamentations 4:1 Lamentations 4:2 Lamentations 4:3 Lamentations 4:4 Lamentations 4:5 Lamentations 4:6 Lamentations 4:7 Lamentations 4:8 Lamentations 4:9 Lamentations 4:10 Lamentations 4:11 Lamentations 4:12 Lamentations 4:13 Lamentations 4:14 Lamentations 4:15 Lamentations 4:16 Lamentations 4:17 Lamentations 4:18 Lamentations 4:19 Lamentations 4:20 Lamentations 4:21 Lamentations 4:22

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