- Why are the verses in Lamentations 1 and other chapters arranged in alphabetical order?
- In Lamentations 1:1, in the reference to Jerusalem’s desolation, the image of a widow appears as a simile rather than a metaphor. Jerusalem is not a widow; she is k’almanah, like a widow. Why?
- Who are the “friends and allies” in Lamentations 1:2? What is the literal meaning of ohaveha?
- According to Lamentations 1:5, what is the fundamental reason for Jerusalem’s downfall? What theological issues arise from this explanation, especially in our time?
- Lamentations 1:8 tells us that “Jerusalem has greatly sinned.” What were her sins? Refer to prophetic writings, particularly Jeremiah.
- Explain the clause, “nations which You have denied admission into Your community” (Lamentations 1:10). What is the theological implication of this reference?
- Beginning with Lamentations 1:12, the poem shifts from the third person to the first person. What does this shift signify? Who is speaking?
- In Lamentations 1:15, who are “all my heroes” and “my young men”‘?
- Contrast the emotional outburst in Lamentations 1:21-22 with the preceding verses. Does it conform to normal emotional expressions in the kind of crisis described here?
