Lamentations 5:11

Authorized King James Version

They ravished the women in Zion, and the maids in the cities of Judah.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
נָשִׁים֙
the women
a woman
#2
בְּצִיּ֣וֹן
in Zion
tsijon (as a permanent capital), a mountain of jerusalem
#3
עִנּ֔וּ
They ravished
to depress literally or figuratively, transitive or intransitive (in various applications, as follows)
#4
בְּתֻלֹ֖ת
and the maids
a virgin (from her privacy); sometimes (by continuation) a bride; also (figuratively) a city or state
#5
בְּעָרֵ֥י
in the cities
a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)
#6
יְהוּדָֽה׃
of Judah
jehudah (or judah), the name of five israelites; also of the tribe descended from the first, and of its territory

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