Lamentations 4:13

Authorized King James Version

For the sins of her prophets, and the iniquities of her priests, that have shed the blood of the just in the midst of her,

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
מֵֽחַטֹּ֣את
For the sins
an offence (sometimes habitual sinfulness), and its penalty, occasion, sacrifice, or expiation; also (concretely) an offender
#2
נְבִיאֶ֔יהָ
of her prophets
a prophet or (generally) inspired man
#3
עֲוֺנ֖וֹת
and the iniquities
perversity, i.e., (moral) evil
#4
כֹּהֲנֶ֑יהָ
of her priests
literally one officiating, a priest; also (by courtesy) an acting priest (although a layman)
#5
הַשֹּׁפְכִ֥ים
that have shed
to spill forth (blood, a libation, liquid metal; or even a solid, i.e., to mound up); also (figuratively) to expend (life, soul, complaint, money, etc
#6
בְּקִרְבָּ֖הּ
in the midst
properly, the nearest part, i.e., the center, whether literal, figurative or adverbial (especially with preposition)
#7
דַּ֥ם
the blood
blood (as that which when shed causes death) of man or an animal; by analogy, the juice of the grape; figuratively (especially in the plural) bloodshe
#8
צַדִּיקִֽים׃
of the just
just

Analysis

Within the broader context of Lamentations, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, 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 revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection