King James Version

What Does Lamentations 1:12 Mean?

“Is it nothing to you, all ye that pass by? behold, and see if there be any sorrow like unto my sorrow, which is done unto me, wherewith the LORD hath afflicted me in the day of his fierce anger. Is it: or, It is nothing pass by: Heb. pass by the way?”

Context

The adversary hath spread out his hand upon all her pleasant things: for she hath seen that the heathen entered into her sanctuary, whom thou didst command that they should not enter into thy congregation. pleasant: or, desirable

All her people sigh, they seek bread; they have given their pleasant things for meat to relieve the soul: see, O LORD, and consider; for I am become vile. to: or, to make the soul to come again

Is it nothing to you, all ye that pass by? behold, and see if there be any sorrow like unto my sorrow, which is done unto me, wherewith the LORD hath afflicted me in the day of his fierce anger. Is it: or, It is nothing pass by: Heb. pass by the way?

From above hath he sent fire into my bones, and it prevaileth against them: he hath spread a net for my feet, he hath turned me back: he hath made me desolate and faint all the day.

The yoke of my transgressions is bound by his hand: they are wreathed, and come up upon my neck: he hath made my strength to fall, the Lord hath delivered me into their hands, from whom I am not able to rise up.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(12) **Is it nothing to you . . .**—Literally, *Not to you, ye passers by, *which the Authorised version takes as a question. The LXX. and Vulg., however, seem to have taken the adverb as an interjection: “*O all ye that pass by . . .*” And some interpreters have taken the negative but not the question, “*Nor to you . . .* (*do I say this*).*” *The Authorised version, however, has most to commend it. What the mourning city felt most keenly was that her unparalleled sufferings were met with an unparalleled indifference.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Lamentations. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Lamentations 1:12 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.