“Look at the Book” is Bible Gateway’s series of short blog posts and infographics introducing you to the books of the Bible. Traditionally ascribed to the prophet Jeremiah, the book of Lamentations is a short but complex, poetical meditation on grief and mourning.
Scroll to the bottom if you’d prefer to see (and save) this article as an infographic. You’ll also find a handy 30-day reading guide. Or, for a challenge, you can do it in one week using the 7-day reading guide below.
Summary
Jerusalem has been destroyed, but the people have also been exiled from the homeland God had given them. Although God ordained their punishment, notice the hope, love, faithfulness, and salvation he continues to offer.
- Category: Prophets
- Theme: Sorrow
- Timeline: Around the fall of Judah, 586 BC
- Written: Traditionally attributed to Jeremiah
Key Verse
“Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” — Lamentations 3:22-23 (NIV)
A Prophet’s Personal Pain
Lamentations is composed of five lament poems:
- Siege of Jerusalem
- Destruction of Jerusalem
- Proclaiming God’s faithfulness in judgment
- Devastation of Jerusalem
- Fall of Jerusalem
Jeremiah’s lament derived from his personal sorrow at the fate of those he dearly loved. He agonized over the people’s unwillingness to turn from their sin when confronted.
7 Day Reading Guide
(See 30-day guide below.)
- Day 1: Jeremiah 1-9
- Day 2: Jeremiah 10-18
- Day 3: Jeremiah 19-27
- Day 4: Jeremiah 28-35
- Day 5: Jeremiah 36-43
- Day 6: Jeremiah 44-52
- Day 7: Lamentations 1-5
Jeremiah’s Anguish
Lamentations relates closely to the book of Jeremiah, describing the anguish over Jerusalem receiving God’s judgment for unrepented sins.
Access the rest of the series. Browse Bible studies for each book of the Bible. Or right-click on the infographic below to download and save the image for your reference.
Chris Fann is the Senior Digital Marketing Manager for Harper Christian Resources. He loves the smell ofa baseball glove, coffee, and old books. He lives in Grand Rapids, Michigan with his wife, 2 teenage boys, and their dog, Freya.