Lamentations 2:7 Commentary
Verse: "The Lord hath cast off his altar; he hath abhorred his sanctuary; he hath given up into the hand of the enemy the walls of her palaces; they have made a noise in the house of the Lord, as in the day of a solemn feast." (Lamentations 2:7)
Contextual Background
This verse is situated within the Book of Lamentations, traditionally attributed to the prophet Jeremiah. Following the destruction of Jerusalem in 586 B.C., the poem laments the severe judgment and suffering of the people of Israel. It serves as a sober reflection on the consequences of sin and the resulting divine withdrawal.
Commentary Insights
1. The Casting Off of the Altar
According to Matthew Henry, the phrase "The Lord hath cast off his altar" signifies a stark abandonment of the means of worship and sacrifice. This indicates a profound sense of loss, as the altar represented God's covenantal relationship with His people. Henry remarks that this abandonment is both a punishment for Israel's unfaithfulness and a demonstration of God's displeasure.
2. Abhorrence of the Sanctuary
Albert Barnes emphasizes that “he hath abhorred his sanctuary,” conveys the shocking reality that God, who once dwelt among His people, now turns away from the temple—His holy place. This abomination is not merely an act of divine judgment but signifies a complete reversal of God's presence among the people. It indicates the severity of Israel's sin and the consequent withdrawal of divine favor.
3. The Enemy's Triumph
In highlighting "he hath given up into the hand of the enemy," Adam Clarke notes that the LORD’s surrender of Jerusalem to its enemies is a fulfillment of His promise of retribution for disobedience. Clarke posits that this moment illustrates the consequences of straying from God’s commands. The reference to the "walls of her palaces" suggests that even the strongest defenses of the city could not withstand divine judgment.
4. Noise in the House of the Lord
The next phrase, "they have made a noise in the house of the Lord, as in the day of a solemn feast," draws attention to the desecration of the sacred space. Matthew Henry reflects that the noise represents both the wickedness in their actions and the ironic contrast to the joyous sounds typically associated with feasts. This underscores how far Israel had fallen from its intended purpose as a people set apart for God.
Theological Implications
- Divine Judgment: This passage serves as a warning of the dire consequences that may follow from turning away from God. The abandonment of worship practices indicates a profound separation between God and His people, emphasizing that neglect of divine commands leads to judgment.
- God’s Holiness: The abhorrence of the sanctuary points to God's holiness and righteousness. It reassures that God does not condone sin but holds His people accountable. His holiness necessitates separation from iniquity, reminding believers to uphold the sanctity of worship.
- The Consequences of Sin: The surrender to enemies serves as a sobering reminder of the temporal nature of human strength. When God removes His protection, any perceived strength—like fortified walls—becomes powerless. This reality calls believers to seek God earnestly.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Lamentations 2:7 encapsulates a profound moment in the history of Israel, highlighting the relationship between the divine response to sin and the implications for worship and community. The insights from Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke challenge pastors, students, and theologians to reflect on the persistent call to holiness and fidelity in worship. It beckons the church today to examine its ways, recognizing that the abandonment of God's principles may lead to spiritual desolation.
