Lamentations 5:1 Commentary

Verse Reference: Lamentations 5:1

Text: "Remember, O LORD, what is come upon us: consider, and behold our reproach."

Introduction

The book of Lamentations, attributed traditionally to the Prophet Jeremiah, articulates the deep sorrow and despair of the Israelites after the destruction of Jerusalem and the temple. Chapter 5 contains a poignant prayer, encapsulated in verse 1, that calls upon God to remember the afflictions of His people.

Contextual Analysis

This verse serves as an appeal from the depths of suffering. Here, the people of Israel are not merely reflecting on their past, but invoking God to act with awareness of their current plight. The call for remembrance implies a relationship where the divine is expected to respond to human suffering.

Significance of Remembrance

The prayer emphasizes the need for God to actively remember their suffering. As noted by Matthew Henry, "The people’s focus is not on the mere acknowledgment of their circumstances but is a plea for divine interaction." In ancient Hebrew understanding, remembering often connotes action; thus, asking God to remember is essentially requesting His intervention.

Theological Implications

This verse raises various theological issues concerning divine forgetfulness and rememberance. Albert Barnes states that the request for God to "consider" suggests a longing for His justice to be manifested in their lives. This leads to reflections on the nature of God's presence during trials and the assurance that He resides with those in suffering.

Divine Attention to Suffering

Adam Clarke points out that the cry "consider, and behold our reproach" underscores the intensity of their disgrace and humiliation. It serves to illustrate the Israelites’ sense of abandonment and their plea for divine compassion. Clarke emphasizes the importance of God’s attentive nature, suggesting that even amidst despair, the faithful can find solace in the idea that their suffering is not unnoticed.

Structural Analysis

This verse is structured as a plea, a format that is common in lament literature. It encapsulates a profound yearning for recognition of suffering and distress. The two actions requested—“remember” and “consider”—create a strong appeal for both memory and mindfulness. Each verb elevates the emotional weight of the supplication.

The Role of Collective Memory

The communal aspect of this lament is also crucial. Matthew Henry emphasizes the importance of collective memory in worship and prayer. He notes that Israel is depicted here as a collective, a community beset by trials that require mutual acknowledgment and acknowledgment by God Himself. This reflects the theology of community intercession, prevalent in both Jewish and Christian traditions.

Pastoral Applications