Lamentations 5:10

Authorized King James Version

Our skin was black like an oven because of the terrible famine.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
עוֹרֵ֙נוּ֙
Our skin
skin (as naked); by implication, hide, leather
#2
כְּתַנּ֣וּר
like an oven
a fire-pot
#3
נִכְמָ֔רוּ
was black
properly, to intertwine or contract, i.e., (by implication) to shrivel (as with heat); figuratively, to be deeply affected with passion (love or pity)
#4
מִפְּנֵ֖י
because
the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi
#5
זַלְעֲפ֥וֹת
of the terrible
a glow (of wind or anger); also a famine (as consuming)
#6
רָעָֽב׃
famine
hunger (more or less extensive)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Lamentations. The concept of divine revelation 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 historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection