King James Version
What Does Lamentations 3:39 Mean?
“Wherefore doth a living man complain, a man for the punishment of his sins? complain: or, murmur”
Context
37
Who is he that saith, and it cometh to pass, when the Lord commandeth it not?
38
Out of the mouth of the most High proceedeth not evil and good?
39
Wherefore doth a living man complain, a man for the punishment of his sins? complain: or, murmur
40
Let us search and try our ways, and turn again to the LORD.
41
Let us lift up our heart with our hands unto God in the heavens.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(39) **Wherefore doth a living man . . .**—Better, *Why doth a man who lives? i.e., *whose life is spared him (comp. Jeremiah 45:5), with all its possibilities of good, complain of sufferings which, however unjust as far as those who cause them are concerned, are, in relation to the sufferer, the just punishment of his own sins?
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 3:39 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Lamentations 3:39
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge