Lamentations 5:10 (KJV)

What does Lamentations 5:10 mean?

Lamentations 5:10 describes how the people’s skin became dark and shriveled, like an oven blackened by fire, because of the severe famine they suffered. The verse uses this vivid image to show the physical toll that hunger and deprivation took on those living through Jerusalem’s destruction.

The speaker is part of the community of survivors in Jerusalem after the Babylonian invasion. The verse is a cry of distress, painting a picture of how starvation changed their appearance and health. This detail is part of a larger prayer in Lamentations 5, where the people recount their suffering and plead for God’s attention and mercy.

The Hebrew behind Lamentations 5:10

• "skin" (עוֹר, ‘or): This word refers to the outer covering of the body, emphasizing the visible effects of famine on the people.
• "black" (כָּמַר, kamar): This verb often means to be darkened or shriveled, not just in color but also in condition, suggesting both discoloration and damage from extreme hunger.
• "oven" (תַּנּוּר, tannur): An oven in ancient times was made of clay and would become blackened from repeated use over fire, making the comparison especially striking for ancient readers.
• "terrible" (זַלְעָפָה, zal‘afah): This word can mean a burning heat or intense fever, highlighting that the famine brought not only hunger but also a consuming, feverish suffering.

Why Lamentations 5:10 matters

• The verse clarifies that famine’s effects were not just internal or emotional but left visible, physical marks on the survivors, showing the depth of their suffering.
• The use of the oven image connects to daily life in ancient Jerusalem, making the suffering relatable and concrete for those hearing or reading the lament.
• In the wider context of Lamentations 5, this verse adds to the cumulative picture of distress, helping readers understand why the community is so desperate for God’s help and restoration.