Lamentations 4:6

Authorized King James Version

For the punishment of the iniquity of the daughter of my people is greater than the punishment of the sin of Sodom, that was overthrown as in a moment, and no hands stayed on her.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַיִּגְדַּל֙

H1431

is greater

to be (causatively make) large (in various senses, as in body, mind, estate or honor, also in pride)

עֲוֹ֣ן

H5771

For the punishment of the iniquity

perversity, i.e., (moral) evil

בַּת

H1323

of the daughter

a daughter (used in the same wide sense as other terms of relationship, literally and figuratively)

עַמִּ֔י

H5971

of my people

a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock

מֵֽחַטַּ֖את

H2403

than the punishment

an offence (sometimes habitual sinfulness), and its penalty, occasion, sacrifice, or expiation; also (concretely) an offender

סְדֹ֑ם

H5467

of the sin of Sodom

sedom, a place near the dead sea

הַֽהֲפוּכָ֣ה

H2015

that was overthrown

to turn about or over; by implication, to change, overturn, return, pervert

כְמוֹ

H3644

as, thus, so

רָ֔גַע

H7281

as in a moment

a wink (of the eyes), i.e., a very short space of time

#10

וְלֹא

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

#11

חָ֥לוּ

H2342

stayed

properly, to twist or whirl (in a circular or spiral manner), i.e., (specifically) to dance, to writhe in pain (especially of parturition) or fear; fi

#12

בָ֖הּ

#13

יָדָֽיִם׃

H3027

and no 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 covenant community 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

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 covenant community in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
How does this verse's literary context within Lamentations chapter 4 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on covenant community address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?