Lamentations 3:18
And I said, My strength and my hope is perished from the LORD:
Original Language Analysis
אָבַ֣ד
is perished
H6
אָבַ֣ד
is perished
Strong's:
H6
Word #:
2 of 5
properly, to wander away, i.e., lose oneself; by implication to perish (causative, destroy)
נִצְחִ֔י
My strength
H5331
נִצְחִ֔י
My strength
Strong's:
H5331
Word #:
3 of 5
properly, a goal, i.e., the bright object at a distance travelled towards; hence (figuratively), splendor, or (subjectively) truthfulness, or (objecti
Cross References
Historical Context
Many in exile died without seeing restoration. Yet their children returned—promises delayed but certain.
Questions for Reflection
- When strength and hope fail, where do we turn?
- What does the death of hope reveal about the depths of spiritual despair?
- How does this honest expression of failed hope prepare the way for verses 21-26's renewed confidence?
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Analysis & Commentary
Strength and hope perished—nadir before turning. Darkest before dawn. Despair precedes hope in structure.