Lamentations 3:19

Authorized King James Version

Remembering mine affliction and my misery, the wormwood and the gall.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
זְכָר
Remembering
properly, to mark (so as to be recognized), i.e., to remember; by implication, to mention; to be male
#2
עָנְיִ֥י
mine affliction
depression, i.e., misery
#3
וּמְרוּדִ֖י
and my misery
an outcast; (abstractly) destitution
#4
לַעֲנָ֥ה
the wormwood
wormwood (regarded as poisonous, and therefore accursed)
#5
וָרֹֽאשׁ׃
and the gall
a poisonous plant, probably the poppy (from its conspicuous head); generally poison (even of serpents)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Lamentations. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection