Definition: He hath also broken my teeth with gravel stones, he hath covered me with ashes.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Lamentations 3:16. It’s a really powerful and sad passage about profound loss and despair. Here's an explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a feeling of utter devastation and hopelessness after experiencing something incredibly painful – like losing everything you held dear, or being deeply hurt. It suggests a complete breaking apart of your spirit and sense of self. Let’s unpack it word-by-word: “He hath also broken my teeth with gravel stones…” - This is the most striking part. "Broken my teeth" means someone has physically injured you, perhaps severely. “With gravel stones” is a metaphor for immense suffering and pain – like the feeling of being crushed or battered. It’s not just a little hurt; it's a deep, lasting wound. “He hath covered me with ashes…” - "Covered me with ashes" symbolizes complete destruction, loss, and the end of everything you valued. It suggests a burning away of your hopes, dreams, and future. It’s like being buried under something that completely destroys what's left. Overall Meaning: The verse paints a picture of immense suffering and despair. It’s not just about a temporary loss; it’s a deep and persistent pain that has utterly shattered the person experiencing it. It conveys a feeling of utter hopelessness and a sense of being utterly lost. Context is Key: This verse comes from Lamentations, which is part of a book of poetry written during a time of great mourning and suffering in ancient Judah. It’s a reflection of profound grief and the struggle to find hope after such devastation. --- Does this explanation help you understand the verse better? Would you like me to: Explain it further with a story or analogy? Discuss its significance within the larger context of Lamentations?