Definition: The hands of the pitiful women have sodden their own children: they were their meat in the destruction of the daughter of my people.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this difficult passage from Lamentations. It’s a really powerful and heartbreaking verse, and it speaks about profound loss and despair. Here's an explanation in simpler terms: What it means: This verse describes a horrific situation where women are deliberately harming their own children. It says that these women are using their hands to wet or sodden their children’s clothes – essentially, they’re inflicting pain and suffering on them. It’s a devastating image of unimaginable loss and cruelty. Let's unpack the details: “The hands of the pitiful women…” : This immediately establishes the gravity of the situation. “Pitiful” suggests extreme distress, shame, and perhaps even desperation. It’s not just about accidentally hurting someone; it's a deliberate act driven by profound pain. “…have sodden their own children:” This is the core of the verse. “Sodden” means to soak or wet something. The women are actively wetting their children's clothes, making them soiled and uncomfortable. It’s a physical manifestation of their actions. “They were their meat in the destruction of the daughter of my people.” : This is the most shocking part. “Meat” refers to the children – specifically, the youngest child of Israel (the nation). The word "destruction" means ruin or devastation. So, this verse says that these women are causing the destruction and pain of their own children through their actions. It's a symbolic statement of utter devastation. What it’s trying to convey: This passage is a profound expression of grief and mourning. It highlights: The devastating consequences of violence: The verse isn't just about the women harming their children; it’s about the result of their actions – the suffering inflicted upon them. A sense of immense loss: It speaks of a complete and utter destruction, not just of physical things but of the lives of those closest to the narrator. The pain of betrayal: The verse evokes a feeling of profound betrayal – the women are actively participating in the destruction of their own family. Context is important: Lamentations was written during a time of intense political and religious turmoil in ancient Israel. The story of the daughter of my people being destroyed by a wicked woman is a significant event that highlights the dangers of pride and rebellion. This verse is a very powerful expression of mourning and judgment. In short, this verse tells us about a terrible act of violence and suffering caused by women, symbolizing immense loss and a deep sense of despair. --- Disclaimer: I've provided an explanation based on the text you gave. Biblical interpretation can be complex, and there might be different ways to understand this passage. Would you like me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the symbolism behind this particular passage?