King James Version
What Does Lamentations 5:16 Mean?
“The crown is fallen from our head: woe unto us, that we have sinned! The: Heb. The crown of our head is fallen”
Context
14
The elders have ceased from the gate, the young men from their musick.
15
The joy of our heart is ceased; our dance is turned into mourning.
16
The crown is fallen from our head: woe unto us, that we have sinned! The: Heb. The crown of our head is fallen
17
For this our heart is faint; for these things our eyes are dim.
18
Because of the mountain of Zion, which is desolate, the foxes walk upon it.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(16) **The crown is fallen.**—The phrase is naturally symbolic of degradation, and need not be restricted to the destruction of the Temple or the devastation of Jerusalem.
**We have sinned!**—The confession of personal sinfulness produced by the contemplation of the miseries of the people contrasts, as has been already noticed, with the half-complaining tone of Lamentations 5:7.
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 5:16 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 5:16
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge