Lamentations 4:8

  1. Home
  2. KJV Bible
  3. Lamentations 4
  4. Lamentations 4:8

Old Testament

Genesis Exodus Leviticus Numbers Deuteronomy Joshua Judges Ruth 1 Samuel 2 Samuel 1 Kings 2 Kings 1 Chronicles 2 Chronicles Ezra Nehemiah Esther Job Psalms Proverbs Ecclesiastes Song of Solomon Isaiah Jeremiah Lamentations Ezekiel Daniel Hosea Joel Amos Obadiah Jonah Micah Nahum Habakkuk Zephaniah Haggai Zechariah Malachi

New Testament

Matthew Mark Luke John Acts Romans 1 Corinthians 2 Corinthians Galatians Ephesians Philippians Colossians 1 Thessalonians 2 Thessalonians 1 Timothy 2 Timothy Titus Philemon Hebrews James 1 Peter 2 Peter 1 John 2 John 3 John Jude Revelation

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

Lamentations 4:8 KJV

Their visage is blacker than a coal; they are not known in the streets: their skin cleaveth to their bones; it is withered, it is become like a stick.

Previous Verse
« Lamentations 4:7
Next Verse
Lamentations 4:9 »

Lamentations 4:8 Bible Commentary

Lamentations 4:8 Commentary

Bible Verse: "Their visage is blacker than a coal; they are not known in the streets: their skin cleaveth to their bones; it is withered, it is become like a stick."

Introduction

The Book of Lamentations chronicles the sorrow and mourning of the Jewish people following the destruction of Jerusalem. Lamentations 4:8 offers a vivid depiction of the state of the people—both physically and emotionally—reflecting the dire consequences of sin and divine judgment. This verse serves as a potent reminder of the seriousness of sin and the reality of suffering.

Verse Analysis

This verse can be divided into two key observations that provide insight into the suffering of the people:

  • Visual Desperation: "Their visage is blacker than a coal" indicates the extreme malnourishment and suffering of the people. The blackness signifies not only physical anguish but also the depth of sorrow that has overcome them.
  • Physical Decline: "Their skin cleaveth to their bones; it is withered, it is become like a stick" highlights the depletion of health and vitality. The imagery used here portrays individuals who are terrified and broken, stripped of their dignity and humanity.

Thematic Exploration

The themes contained within this verse resonate deeply with the overarching messages found throughout Scripture. They challenge readers to reflect on the nature of sin, the consequences of straying from God, and the hope found in repentance.

Consequences of Sin

Both Matthew Henry and Albert Barnes emphasize the gravity of sin as the catalyst for divine judgment. The blackened visage of the people serves as a physical manifestation of their spiritual condition. In the eyes of God, sin leads to desolation, and the vivid imagery in this verse underscores that truth profoundly.

Divine Judgment

Adam Clarke notes that such suffering is a direct response to the nation's disobedience and rebellion against God. The degradation of the human body is indicative of a heart turned away from its Creator. It serves to remind us that spiritual disobedience comes with physical consequences.

Hope Amidst Despair

While the verse paints a picture of hopelessness, it is essential to see it within the larger narrative of Lamentations, which calls for a return to God. Referring to the preceding verses, the reader is encouraged to repent, recognizing that even in suffering there is potential for restoration through repentance and faith in God.

Pastoral Application

This verse presents several applications for pastors, theologians, and students:

  • Understanding Suffering: Pastors can utilize this verse to teach congregations about the nature of suffering as both a consequence of sin and an opportunity for growth in faith.
  • Mercy and Compassion: This scripture urges pastoral care to address the physical and spiritual needs of the afflicted. Like the exiles, modern congregations may face suffering, and it is imperative to respond with compassion and provide hope!
  • Call to Repentance: Pastors can emphasize the importance of repentance in their sermons, encouraging a return to God as the source of healing. The decline in physical conditions is a stark warning about spiritual conditions before God.

Theological Reflections

Theologically, Lamentations 4:8 brings forth critical reflections on sin, judgment, and grace. The importance of a robust understanding of the relationship between human actions and divine response cannot be understated.

Sin and Its Ramifications

The gravity of the people's desolation should invoke a sober acknowledgment of our own sinfulness. In our contemporary understanding, we must remember that spiritual decline can indirectly lead to social and physical decline.

The Role of Community

This verse also speaks to the communal nature of suffering. When a community turns away from God, the consequences are borne by all, highlighting the importance of intercessory prayer and collective faithfulness.

Encouragement for Restoration

Finally, while the imagery is dark, it serves to emphasize the importance of grace and restoration. The call for repentance opens the door for a renewed relationship with God, emphasizing His mercy and the joy of salvation that can arise even from despair.

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

KJV Bible Books

KJV Bible Books and Chapters »