Lamentations 5:4
We have drunken our water for money; our wood is sold unto us.
Original Language Analysis
מֵימֵ֙ינוּ֙
our water
H4325
מֵימֵ֙ינוּ֙
our water
Strong's:
H4325
Word #:
1 of 6
water; figuratively, juice; by euphemism, urine, semen
בְּכֶ֣סֶף
for money
H3701
בְּכֶ֣סֶף
for money
Strong's:
H3701
Word #:
2 of 6
silver (from its pale color); by implication, money
Historical Context
Babylonian occupation meant former landowners paid occupiers for resources from their own land.
Questions for Reflection
- How does losing free access to blessings teach gratitude?
- What is the significance of having to purchase water and wood that should be freely available?
- How does this reversal of natural provision illustrate the totality of Jerusalem's subjugation?
Analysis & Commentary
Paying for water and wood—basic necessities commodified. In own land, forced to buy what should be free.