Jerusalem’s sin was first mentioned in Lamentations 1:5 but is here more closely considered in the bluntness of the original word usage.1 Her sin is described as grievous.
This expression means a grave failure to achieve a norm, resulting in injury to the interests of a person or community. It is a comprehensive term that includes the impact of misconduct on each other.2 Together with Lamentations 1:5, Jerusalem’s sin is described as including rebellions of all types. Firstly, Jerusalem’s sin was against herself— her inhabitants sinning against each other. But ultimately it was rebellion against God.3 Jerusalem’s downfall and sin is ultimately described as a breach of God’s covenant standards.4
8 Jérusalem a multiplié ses péchés, C'est pourquoi elle est un objet d'aversion; Tous ceux qui l'honoraient la méprisent, en voyant sa nudité; Elle-même soupire, et détourne la face.