Lamentations 5:18
Because of the mountain of Zion, which is desolate, the foxes walk upon it.
Original Language Analysis
עַ֤ל
H5921
עַ֤ל
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
1 of 7
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
הַר
Because of the mountain
H2022
הַר
Because of the mountain
Strong's:
H2022
Word #:
2 of 7
a mountain or range of hills (sometimes used figuratively)
צִיּוֹן֙
of Zion
H6726
צִיּוֹן֙
of Zion
Strong's:
H6726
Word #:
3 of 7
tsijon (as a permanent capital), a mountain of jerusalem
שֶׁשָּׁמֵ֔ם
which is desolate
H8074
שֶׁשָּׁמֵ֔ם
which is desolate
Strong's:
H8074
Word #:
4 of 7
to stun (or intransitively, grow numb), i.e., devastate or (figuratively) stupefy (both usually in a passive sense)
Cross References
Micah 3:12Therefore shall Zion for your sake be plowed as a field, and Jerusalem shall become heaps, and the mountain of the house as the high places of the forest.Jeremiah 9:11And I will make Jerusalem heaps, and a den of dragons; and I will make the cities of Judah desolate, without an inhabitant.
Historical Context
Archaeological evidence shows Jerusalem was largely abandoned 586-538 BC. Animals reclaimed ruins.
Questions for Reflection
- What does desolation of holy places teach about importance of ongoing worship?
- Why is Mount Zion's desolation with prowling foxes especially tragic?
- What does the desecration of the holy mountain teach about the consequences of defiling God's presence?
Analysis & Commentary
Mount Zion desolate, foxes walk there. Wild animals inhabit holy mountain. Reversal of civilization.