Lamentations 5:6 – “We submitted to Egypt and Assyria to get enough bread.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
This verse highlights the desperation of the people of Judah during their time of suffering and exile. The mention of “submitting to Egypt and Assyria” reflects the nation’s dependence on foreign powers for basic survival, such as obtaining enough food. This dependency was humiliating and contrary to their identity as God’s chosen people, who were meant to rely on Him as their ultimate provider. Instead, they found themselves at the mercy of former enemies, compromising their dignity and independence to meet their needs.
The verse reveals the painful reality of Judah’s condition, where survival became their primary concern. It also reflects a pattern of turning to human solutions instead of trusting in God, a recurring theme throughout Israel’s history.
Historical Context
After the fall of Jerusalem in 586 B.C., the land was devastated, and the people struggled to meet even their basic needs. Egypt and Assyria, both significant powers in the region, were historical foes of Israel and Judah. These nations had often been sources of conflict, but in times of extreme need, Judah turned to them for help.
The submission to Egypt and Assyria also has historical roots in earlier attempts by Judah’s leaders to form political alliances instead of relying on God. These alliances were often condemned by the prophets as acts of mistrust in God’s power and faithfulness (Isaiah 30:1-3). The verse serves as a lament over the consequences of these decisions and the humiliation of being dependent on foreign powers.
Theological Implications
Theologically, this verse underscores the futility of relying on human strength rather than trusting in God. Egypt and Assyria, symbols of worldly power, could provide temporary relief but not true security or restoration. This dependence reflects a lack of faith in God as the ultimate provider and protector. The verse is a call to repentance, reminding readers of the importance of relying on God rather than placing trust in worldly solutions that cannot fully satisfy or save.
Literary Analysis
Lamentations 5:6 uses vivid and concise language to capture the depth of Judah’s humiliation. The mention of Egypt and Assyria, two historical enemies, underscores the gravity of their situation. The structure of the verse emphasizes submission and need, highlighting the disparity between their identity as God’s people and their current state. The language is both historical and symbolic, representing not only a literal dependence on foreign nations but also a spiritual failure to trust in God.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Isaiah 30:1-3: “Woe to the obstinate children,” declares the Lord, “to those who carry out plans that are not mine, forming an alliance, but not by my Spirit.”
- Jeremiah 2:18: “Now why go to Egypt to drink water from the Nile? And why go to Assyria to drink water from the Euphrates?”
- Psalm 146:3: “Do not put your trust in princes, in human beings, who cannot save.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For modern believers, this verse is a reminder to trust in God rather than seeking solutions through worldly means. It warns against compromising faith and values in times of desperation or need. Christians are called to rely on God as their provider, trusting in His timing and His ways, even when the circumstances seem bleak. The verse also challenges believers to examine where they place their trust, encouraging dependence on God rather than temporary or flawed human systems.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Even as Judah experienced the consequences of their choices, God’s love remained steadfast. This verse reflects God’s desire for His people to turn back to Him and find their needs met in His provision. His love is evident in His readiness to restore those who repent and return to Him. The lament itself is a testament to God’s relationship with His people, as they continue to cry out to Him despite their failures.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is the ultimate provider and source of sustenance, both physically and spiritually. In John 6:35, Jesus declares, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.” Through Christ, believers are freed from dependence on worldly powers and are invited to rely fully on God’s provision. Jesus’ life and sacrifice offer the restoration and security that Judah sought but could not find in Egypt or Assyria.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Where do you turn in times of need or desperation? How does this verse challenge you to trust in God?
- Are there areas in your life where you’ve compromised your faith for temporary relief or worldly solutions?
- How can you reflect God’s provision by helping those in need without compromising their dignity?
- What does it mean for you to rely on Jesus as the “bread of life” in both physical and spiritual ways?
Lamentations 5:6 serves as a reminder of the consequences of misplaced trust and the hope of restoration through God’s faithfulness. It calls believers to turn to Him as their true provider and sustainer, finding in Jesus the ultimate source of life and security.