Lamentations Chapter 3 · Verse 29

Authorized King James Version

Study PDF

He putteth his mouth in the dust; if so be there may be hope.

Original Language Analysis

יִתֵּ֤ן He putteth H5414
יִתֵּ֤ן He putteth
Strong's: H5414
Word #: 1 of 6
to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
בֶּֽעָפָר֙ in the dust H6083
בֶּֽעָפָר֙ in the dust
Strong's: H6083
Word #: 2 of 6
dust (as powdered or gray); hence, clay, earth, mud
פִּ֔יהוּ his mouth H6310
פִּ֔יהוּ his mouth
Strong's: H6310
Word #: 3 of 6
the mouth (as the means of blowing), whether literal or figurative (particularly speech); specifically edge, portion or side; adverbially (with prepos
אוּלַ֖י H194
אוּלַ֖י
Strong's: H194
Word #: 4 of 6
if not; hence perhaps
יֵ֥שׁ if so be there may be H3426
יֵ֥שׁ if so be there may be
Strong's: H3426
Word #: 5 of 6
there is or are (or any other form of the verb to be, as may suit the connection)
תִּקְוָֽה׃ hope H8615
תִּקְוָֽה׃ hope
Strong's: H8615
Word #: 6 of 6
literally a cord (as an attachment); figuratively, expectancy

Analysis & Commentary

Putting mouth in dust—ultimate submission and humility. If perhaps there is hope. Like Abraham (Genesis 18:27).

Historical Context

Ancient Near Eastern submission gesture. Complete surrender to superior power, hoping for mercy.

Questions for Reflection