Introduction to Lamentations

I would suggest starting with reading A Christian's Guide to Studying and Applying the Old Testament.

Survey:

Since there is little question by Jewish or Christian sources as to the authorship of this book, we will accept it as having been written by the prophet Jeremiah. Still, there is no direct statement of such, so this is not absolute.

The first four chapters of the book were written in the form of an acrostic poem (in Hebrew) mourning the destruction of Jerusalem. The style is very complex. There are actually 5 poems in the book, conveniently seen in the modern chapter divisions.

The book is still used liturgically by many in Judaism to commemorate Jerusalem's destruction in 586 B.C. (and A.D. 70).

The setting for the book is the Babylonian siege of Jerusalem from 588-586 B.C., ending on July 19, 586 B.C., when Nebuchadnezzar overran the city. On August 15, the city and its all-important temple were burned.

Hermeneutical (Interpretation) Notes:

Understand that the purpose and genre here point to a poem of utter lament for the destruction of Jerusalem. This was an individual writing poetry expressing his deepest feelings, albeit by inspiration of God. Don't let this taint the rest of your understanding of Scripture in a melancholy tone. The reason for the sadness was sin that brought judgment, but there is hope in the Lord. This is a truth that is all over the Bible.

Contribution to the Body of Scripture:

This book is important because it provides very real insight into the consequences of sin and hope for restoration. It also shows the special relationship between God and His nation of Israel (though again, this should not be transferred directly to the church today).

Text for Today: Lamentations 1:1 (NKJV)

          How lonely sits the city
          That was full of people!
          How like a widow is she,
          Who was great among the nations!
          The princess among the provinces
          Has become a slave!

Note how far the "princess" has fallen. Like a saddened widow or a ruler whose role has been reversed to serve, Jerusalem (and more broadly, the southern half of Israel- Judah) is in a sad state. This will be more fully explored, including its causes and hope for relief, in the following poetic dirges.