Definition: Behold, O LORD, and consider to whom thou hast done this. Shall the women eat their fruit, [and] children of a span long? shall the priest and the prophet be slain in the sanctuary of the Lord?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly powerful verse from Lamentations 2:20. It's a really intense and heartbreaking passage about God’s judgment and the devastating consequences of sin. Here’s a breakdown in simpler terms: The Core Situation: A Massive Sin: The verse describes a terrible event – a massive, prolonged period of suffering and devastation. It’s not just one thing; it's a sustained pattern of hardship for people within the Jewish community. Specific Victims: It focuses on two groups of people: Women: Specifically, women are being punished severely. They’re facing starvation – literally, their fruit is rotting and decaying (a metaphor for lost hope and potential). They're also facing the threat of being killed by priests and prophets. Children: The future of children – their lives are at risk. What’s Being Said? Judgment & Punishment: The verse is a direct statement of God's judgment. He’s punishing those who have committed a grave sin, specifically a profound betrayal of trust and respect for Him. Loss of Faith & Protection: The punishment isn’t just about physical suffering; it’s about the loss of something vital: Faith: The women are being denied the chance to have faith in God. They're being stripped of their ability to trust and believe. Protection: The priests and prophets – those who were entrusted with guarding God's people - are threatened with death. This suggests a vulnerability in their role as intermediaries between God and humanity. The Significance & Why It’s Powerful This verse is incredibly significant because it speaks to the cost of sin . It shows that sin isn’t just a personal failing; it has far-reaching consequences for relationships, trust, and even the future of those who are affected by it. A Reminder of God's Justice: It highlights God’s unwavering justice – that He will hold accountable those who break His rules and principles. Emphasis on Restoration: It also suggests a hope for restoration. The verse doesn't just focus on punishment; it hints at the possibility of healing and rebuilding when sin is recognized and punished. In short, Lamentations 2:20 describes a period of intense suffering caused by a terrible sin that jeopardizes faith, protection, and the future of those involved. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part of this verse in more detail? Connect it to a specific story or theme in the Bible? Offer a different perspective on its meaning?