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Lamentations 2:21

The young and the old lie on the ground in the streets: my virgins and my young men are fallen by the sword; thou hast slain them in the day of thine anger; thou hast killed, and not pitied.

Lamentations 2:21 · King James Version

Meaning

This verse, found in the book of Lamentations, reflects the profound sorrow and devastation of the speaker witnessing the tragic loss of their people. The imagery of the young and the old lying on the ground in the streets conveys the indiscriminate nature of the destruction, showing that no one was spared from the brutality of the sword. The mention of virgins and young men emphasizes the innocence and potential of those who perished, adding to the sense of tragedy and loss. The speaker attributes these deaths to the anger of a higher power, possibly referencing God's judgment or punishment. The phrase "thou hast killed, and not pitied" highlights the lack of mercy or compassion shown to the victims, further emphasizing the magnitude of the tragedy. Overall, this verse serves as a poignant reminder of the harsh realities of war and the devastating impact it can have on individuals and communities.

Theological Overview

One theological interpretation of this verse from the Book of Lamentations is that it depicts a scene of devastation and destruction brought upon Judah by God as a result of their sins. The imagery of the young and the old lying on the ground in the streets highlights the indiscriminate nature of God's wrath. The mention of virgins and young men falling by the sword emphasizes the tragic loss of innocence and strength within the community. The phrase "thou hast slain them in the day of thine anger; thou hast killed, and not pitied" underscores the severity of God's judgment and the absence of mercy in the face of their transgressions. This verse serves as a somber reminder of the consequences of turning away from God and the importance of repentance and seeking forgiveness.

Lamentations 2:21 in other translations

American Standard Version

The youth and the old man lie on the ground in the streets; My virgins and my young men are fallen by the sword: Thou hast slain them in the day of thine anger; Thou hast slaughtered, [and] not pitied.

World English Bible

The youth and the old man lie on the ground in the streets; My virgins and my young men are fallen by the sword: You have killed them in the day of your anger; you have slaughtered, and not pitied.

Douay-Rheims

Sin. The child and the old man lie without on the ground: my virgins and my young men are fallen by the sword: thou hast slain them in the day of thy wrath: thou hast killed, and shewn them no pity.

Geneva Bible (1599)

The yong and the olde lie on the ground in the streetes: my virgins and my yong men are fallen by the sworde: thou hast slaine them in the day of thy wrath: thou hast killed and not spared.