Lamentations 2:8
The LORD hath purposed to destroy the wall of the daughter of Zion: he hath stretched out a line, he hath not withdrawn his hand from destroying: therefore he made the rampart and the wall to lament; they languished together.
Lamentations 2:8 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Lamentations describes the impending destruction of Jerusalem by the Lord. The metaphor of a wall being destroyed symbolizes the vulnerability and downfall of the city of Zion. The image of the Lord stretching out a line signifies deliberate planning and execution of divine judgment. The reference to the rampart and wall lamenting and languishing together evokes a sense of mourning and despair as the structures that once protected the people now stand helpless against the impending destruction. The verse serves as a warning of the consequences of disobedience and the inevitability of divine judgment. It highlights the power and sovereignty of the Lord over his people and serves as a reminder of the importance of repentance and obedience to avoid the consequences of sin.
Theological Overview
In this verse, the prophet conveys a vivid image of God's judgment upon the people of Zion. The destruction of the wall symbolizes the breakdown of the protective barrier that once shielded the daughter of Zion. The stretching out of a line signifies a deliberate and measured approach by the Lord in carrying out this judgment. The fact that God does not withdraw his hand from destroying emphasizes the severity and finality of the punishment. The mention of the rampart and the wall lamenting and languishing together portrays a sense of mourning and despair as even these physical structures seem to feel the weight of God's judgment. This verse serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the inevitability of divine justice.
Lamentations 2:8 in other translations
American Standard Version
Jehovah hath purposed to destroy the wall of the daughter of Zion; He hath stretched out the line, he hath not withdrawn his hand from destroying; And he hath made the rampart and wall to lament; they languish together.
World English Bible
Yahweh has purposed to destroy the wall of the daughter of Zion; He has stretched out the line, he has not withdrawn his hand from destroying; He has made the rampart and wall to lament; they languish together.
Douay-Rheims
Heth. The Lord hath purposed to destroy the wall of the daughter of Sion: he hath stretched out his line, and hath not withdrawn his hand from destroying: and the bulwark hath mourned, and the wall hath been destroyed together.
Geneva Bible (1599)
The Lord hath determined to destroy the wall of the daughter of Zion: hee stretched out a lyne: hee hath not withdrawen his hande from destroying: therefore hee made the rampart and the wall to lament: they were destroyed together.