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Book of Lamentations - Chapter 4 - Verse 15

4:15
They cried unto them, Depart ye; it is unclean; depart, depart, touch not: when they fled away and wandered, they said among the heathen, They shall no more sojourn there.

Meaning

This verse from the book of Lamentations in the Bible depicts a situation where a group of people is being rejected and cast out by others. The individuals in question are being told to depart and are being labeled as unclean, being warned not to touch anything. The repetition of the word "depart" emphasizes the urgency and severity of the situation. As they flee and wander away, they are scorned by other nations. The verse conveys a sense of isolation, rejection, and displacement. It illustrates the consequences of being outcast and serves as a reminder of the struggles and hardships faced by those who are marginalized or ostracized. The verse carries a message of empathy and urges readers to consider the plight of those who are excluded or mistreated by society.

Theological Overview

In this verse, the Israelites are being rejected by the nations around them. The word "unclean" here has significance in the theological interpretation of this passage. In a biblical context, being unclean often refers to a state of impurity or sinfulness. When the Israelites are told to depart because they are unclean, it signifies a separation from God's chosen people due to their disobedience. The repeated exhortation to depart emphasizes the severity of the situation and the urgency for the Israelites to repent and return to God. As they flee and wander among the heathen, the Israelites face the consequences of their actions and lament their exile. The final statement, "They shall no more sojourn there," suggests a recognition of the Israelites' displacement and a realization of the loss of their homeland. Through word studies and theological reflection on this verse, we can glean insights into the themes of repentance, consequences of sin, and the faithfulness of God despite the unfaithfulness of His people.

American Standard Version

Depart ye, they cried unto them, Unclean! depart, depart, touch not! When they fled away and wandered, men said among the nations, They shall no more sojourn [here] .
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