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An introduction to the book of Lamentations.
The prophet Jeremiah
composed the book of Lamentations
shortly after witnessing the siege
and destruction of Jerusalem
by Babylon in 607 B.C.E.
Jeremiah expresses deep sadness
over the catastrophe that befell Jerusalem.
The book is organized
into five chapters, or poems.
In chapter 1,
the city of Jerusalem
is described as a princess
who is desolated by her enemies
and becomes an abandoned widow and slave
on account of her many sins.
Chapter 2 reveals that it was Jehovah himself
who brought about Jerusalem’s destruction.
Those who pass by its ruined walls
are amazed at the complete devastation.
In chapter 3,
Jeremiah speaks of the desolate nation
as an afflicted man who pleads with Jehovah
to remember his pitiable and homeless state.
However, Jeremiah shows a waiting attitude
and expresses hope that Jehovah will,
in his loyal love and mercy,
restore the nation.
Chapter 4 shifts attention
to Jehovah’s temple.
Although it was once the glorious center
of true worship,
it was now devastated.
Jeremiah relates the horrific conditions
—deprivation, famine, and death—
that existed in Jerusalem
during its final siege.
Did you know?
The first four chapters are acrostic poems.
In each one, successive verses,
or groups of verses,
begin with a different letter
of the Hebrew alphabet.
Chapter 5 is written from the perspective
of Jerusalem’s former inhabitants,
who have lost their homes and freedom.
Jeremiah likens them
to orphans without a father
who humbly beg Jehovah
for mercy and salvation.
As you consider
the five poems of Lamentations,
notice how rebellion brings divine judgment,
how repentance leads to divine mercy,
and how sorrow will give way to rejoicing
under the rule of God’s Kingdom.

Introduction to Lamentations