King James Version

What Does Lamentations 5:18 Mean?

“Because of the mountain of Zion, which is desolate, the foxes walk upon it.”

Context

The crown is fallen from our head: woe unto us, that we have sinned! The: Heb. The crown of our head is fallen

For this our heart is faint; for these things our eyes are dim.

Because of the mountain of Zion, which is desolate, the foxes walk upon it.

Thou, O LORD, remainest for ever; thy throne from generation to generation.

Wherefore dost thou forget us for ever, and forsake us so long time? so: Heb. for length of days?

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(18) **Foxes.**—Better, *jackals, *who are thought of as haunting the ruins of Jerusalem. (Comp. Psalm 63:10.)

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 5:18 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.