Lamentations 4:22 (KJV)

What does Lamentations 4:22 mean?

Lamentations 4:22 says that Jerusalem’s time of punishment for its wrongdoing is coming to an end, and God will not send its people into exile again; instead, God will now turn to judge Edom for its own sins. The verse marks a turning point, promising relief for Zion while warning Edom that its own guilt will be exposed and dealt with.

The speaker is the author of Lamentations, traditionally understood as Jeremiah, addressing the people of Jerusalem (“daughter of Zion”) and Edom (“daughter of Edom”). Jerusalem has suffered exile and hardship because of its “iniquity,” but that period is now “accomplished” or finished. In contrast, Edom, which had gloated over Jerusalem’s fall, will now face God’s attention to its own wrongs, with its sins uncovered and punished.

The Hebrew behind Lamentations 4:22

• “Iniquity” (עָוֹן, ʿavon): This word refers to guilt or wrongdoing, often with the sense of the consequences that come from it. Here, it highlights that Jerusalem’s suffering was tied to its moral failings, but that burden is now lifted.
• “Accomplished” (תָּם, tam): This word means to be finished or completed. The verse uses it to show that Jerusalem’s punishment has run its course—there is a sense of closure and hope for restoration.
• “Visit” (פָּקַד, paqad): In this context, “visit” means to pay attention to or bring consequences for. God will now “visit” Edom’s iniquity, meaning Edom will be held accountable for its actions.
• “Discover” (גָּלָה, galah): This word means to uncover or reveal. God will “discover” Edom’s sins, exposing what was hidden and bringing it to light for judgment.

Why Lamentations 4:22 matters

• Lamentations 4:22 clarifies that Jerusalem’s suffering was not endless; there is a promise of an endpoint and hope for the future, which would have been deeply significant for a devastated people.
• The verse shifts attention from Jerusalem to Edom, showing that God’s justice is not limited to one nation—others who acted wrongly will also face consequences.
• By mentioning both the completion of Zion’s punishment and the coming judgment on Edom, the verse connects personal suffering to a broader story of justice and accountability in the ancient world.