King James Version
What Does Lamentations 3:35 Mean?
“To turn aside the right of a man before the face of the most High, the most High: or, a superior”
Context
33
For he doth not afflict willingly nor grieve the children of men. willingly: Heb. from his heart
34
To crush under his feet all the prisoners of the earth,
35
To turn aside the right of a man before the face of the most High, the most High: or, a superior
36
To subvert a man in his cause, the Lord approveth not. approveth not: or, seeth not
37
Who is he that saith, and it cometh to pass, when the Lord commandeth it not?
Commentary
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary20. As the flight and capture of Urijah must have occupied some time, "the beginning of the reign of Jehoiakim" (Jr 26:1) must not mean the very beginning, but the second or third year of his eleven years' reign.
**And ... also--**perhaps connected with Jr 26:24, as the comment of the writer, not the continuation of the speech of the elders: "And although also a man that prophesied ... Urijah ... (proving how great was the danger in which Jeremiah stood, and how wonderful the providence of God in preserving him), nevertheless the hand of Ahikam," &c. [Glassius]. The context, however, implies rather that the words are the continuation of the previous speech of the elders. They adduce another instance besides that of Micah, though of a different kind, namely, that of Urijah: he suffered for his prophecies, but they imply, though they do not venture to express it, that thereby sin has been added to sin, and that it has done no good to Jehoiakim, for that the notorious condition of the state at this time shows that a heavier vengeance is impending if they persevere in such acts of violence [Calvin].
Robert Jamieson, A.R. Fausset, David Brown. 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 3:35 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.