Book of Lamentations - Chapter 5 - Verse 6
Meaning
In this verse, it is important to understand the historical context in order to grasp its full meaning. The Israelites were a people who had experienced periods of famine and hunger in their history. During times of hardship, they relied on neighboring nations such as Egypt and Assyria for sustenance. The verse serves as a reminder of the Israelites' dependence on these nations for bread and basic necessities. It also highlights the fact that God was the one who allowed these nations to provide for his people during times of need. The verse can be interpreted as a representation of God's provision and care for his people, even when they had to rely on foreign powers for their survival. It emphasizes the idea that God's hand was behind the assistance provided by Egypt and Assyria, ultimately ensuring that his people were satisfied with bread.
Theological Overview
In this verse, the phrase "to be satisfied with bread" has a deeper theological interpretation that goes beyond a simple provision of sustenance. The giving of the hand to the Egyptians and Assyrians signifies a reliance on these nations for material needs, symbolizing a lack of trust in God's provision. The act of seeking satisfaction from human sources rather than directly from God highlights a theme of spiritual rebellion and waywardness. The word "satisfied" carries connotations of temporary fulfillment, suggesting that relying on worldly powers for sustenance may lead to a shallow and fleeting sense of contentment. This verse serves as a cautionary reminder to prioritize reliance on God for all our needs, as true satisfaction can only come from Him. Through word studies, we can understand the depth of meaning behind each phrase in the verse, shedding light on the spiritual implications of seeking fulfillment from sources other than God.