Lamentations 3:64

Render unto them a recompence, O LORD, according to the work of their hands.

Word-by-Word Analysis

תָּשִׁ֨יב

H7725

Render

to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);

לָהֶ֥ם

גְּמ֛וּל

H1576

unto them a recompence

treatment, i.e., an act (of good or ill); by implication, service or requital

יְהוָ֖ה

H3068

O LORD

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

כְּמַעֲשֵׂ֥ה

H4639

according to the work

an action (good or bad); generally, a transaction; abstractly, activity; by implication, a product (specifically, a poem) or (generally) property

יְדֵיהֶֽם׃

H3027

of their hands

a hand (the open one [indicating power, means, direction, etc.], in distinction from h3709, the closed one); used (as noun, adverb, etc.) in a great v

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Lamentations. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes the covenant name Yahweh, emphasizing God's faithfulness to His promises, 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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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

In what ways does understanding divine sovereignty in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
How does this verse's literary context within Lamentations chapter 3 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?