King James Version

What Does Lamentations 5:21 Mean?

“Turn thou us unto thee, O LORD, and we shall be turned; renew our days as of old.”

Context

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?

Turn thou us unto thee, O LORD, and we shall be turned; renew our days as of old.

But thou hast utterly rejected us; thou art very wroth against us. But: or, For wilt thou utterly reject us?

Read full chapter →

Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(21) **Turn thou us . . . O Lord . . .**—The answer to the problem was found in man’s submission and in prayer. He could not turn himself, and so re-establish the old filial relation. He could ask God to turn him, and he felt that the prayer would not be asked in vain.

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 5:21 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.