Lamentations 5:6

We submitted to Egypt and Assyria to get enough bread.

Study Bible

We submitted
The Hebrew root for "submitted" is "נָתַן" (natan), which means to give or to yield. This phrase indicates a posture of surrender or subjugation, highlighting the desperation and humility of the Israelites. Historically, this submission was not just political but also spiritual, as Israel often turned to foreign powers for help instead of relying on God. This reflects a recurring theme in the Old Testament where Israel's reliance on human strength leads to further bondage and suffering.

to Egypt
Egypt, in the biblical narrative, is often symbolic of bondage and oppression, harking back to the Israelites' slavery before the Exodus. The mention of Egypt here is significant as it represents a return to old dependencies and a failure to trust in God's provision. Archaeologically, Egypt was a powerful nation during the time of Lamentations, and its influence was felt throughout the region. The Israelites' submission to Egypt underscores their dire circumstances and the reversal of their liberation story.

and Assyria
Assyria was a dominant empire known for its military prowess and harsh rule. Historically, Assyria had already conquered the northern kingdom of Israel, and its mention here serves as a reminder of the threat and oppression faced by the people of Judah. The Assyrians were known for their brutal tactics and forced deportations, which would have been fresh in the minds of the Judeans. This submission to Assyria further illustrates the extent of Judah's desperation and the consequences of their disobedience to God.

to get enough bread
The quest for "bread" symbolizes the basic necessities of life and survival. In the ancient Near East, bread was a staple food, essential for sustenance. The fact that the Israelites had to submit to foreign powers to obtain it highlights their dire economic and social conditions. Scripturally, bread is also a metaphor for God's provision, as seen in the manna provided during the Exodus. This phrase underscores the tragic irony that the people of God, who were promised a land flowing with milk and honey, now had to rely on their oppressors for sustenance due to their unfaithfulness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jeremiah
Traditionally considered the author of Lamentations, Jeremiah was a prophet who warned Judah of impending judgment due to their disobedience to God.

2. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, which faced destruction and exile due to its persistent idolatry and rebellion against God.

3. Egypt
A neighboring nation to the south of Judah, often seen as a place of refuge or alliance in times of trouble, but also a symbol of reliance on human strength rather than God.

4. Assyria
A powerful empire to the north, known for its military might and oppression of smaller nations, including Israel and Judah.

5. Exile
The event of Judah's captivity and removal from their land, a consequence of their failure to follow God's covenant.

Teaching Points

Reliance on God vs. Human Alliances
The verse highlights the danger of relying on human alliances instead of trusting in God. Judah's submission to Egypt and Assyria was a desperate attempt to secure basic needs, but it ultimately led to further bondage and suffering.

Consequences of Disobedience
The historical context of Lamentations 5:6 serves as a reminder of the consequences of turning away from God's commands. It underscores the importance of obedience and faithfulness to God's covenant.

Spiritual Hunger and Provision
Just as Judah sought bread from foreign nations, we must recognize our spiritual hunger and seek sustenance from God alone, who provides for our needs.

Repentance and Restoration
The lament in Lamentations calls for repentance and a return to God. It encourages believers to examine their lives and turn back to God for restoration and healing.

Bible Study Questions

1. What are some modern-day "Egypts" or "Assyrias" that we might be tempted to rely on instead of God? How can we guard against this tendency?

2. How does the historical context of Judah's alliances with Egypt and Assyria inform our understanding of the consequences of disobedience to God?

3. In what ways can we ensure that our spiritual hunger is satisfied by God rather than seeking fulfillment in worldly sources?

4. How does the theme of repentance in Lamentations 5:6 apply to our personal lives and our relationship with God today?

5. Can you identify other biblical instances where reliance on human strength led to downfall? How do these examples reinforce the message of Lamentations 5:6?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 30:1-3
This passage warns against forming alliances with Egypt, highlighting the futility of relying on human powers instead of trusting in God.

2 Kings 17:3-6
Describes the Assyrian conquest of Israel, illustrating the consequences of seeking help from foreign powers rather than God.

Deuteronomy 28:47-48
Outlines the curses for disobedience, including serving foreign nations, which is a backdrop for the lament in Lamentations.