Lamentations 3:41

Authorized King James Version

Let us lift up our heart with our hands unto God in the heavens.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
נִשָּׂ֤א
H5375
Let us lift up
to lift, in a great variety of applications, literal and figurative, absolute and relative
#2
לְבָבֵ֙נוּ֙
H3824
our heart
the heart (as the most interior organ)
#3
אֶל
H413
near, with or among; often in general, to
#4
כַּפָּ֔יִם
H3709
with our hands
the hollow hand or palm (so of the paw of an animal, of the sole, and even of the bowl of a dish or sling, the handle of a bolt, the leaves of a palm-
#5
אֶל
H413
near, with or among; often in general, to
#6
אֵ֖ל
H410
unto God
strength; as adjective, mighty; especially the almighty (but used also of any deity)
#7
בַּשָּׁמָֽיִם׃
H8064
in the heavens
the sky (as aloft; the dual perhaps alluding to the visible arch in which the clouds move, as well as to the higher ether where the celestial bodies r

Analysis

Within the broader context of Lamentations, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Lamentations.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Lamentations Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection