1. Lamentations 1:14 (NEG79)
  2. Explication du texte

What should be noted about the Lord’s name?

Lamentations 1:14 (NEG79)

14 Sa main a lié le joug de mes iniquités; Elles se sont entrelacées, appliquées sur mon cou; Il a brisé ma force; Le Seigneur m'a livrée à des mains auxquelles je ne puis résister.

The word Adonai (Lord) is used here for the first time instead of Yahweh (which is translated as Lord). While both names are used in reference to God, they carry distinct overtones. Yahweh refers to God as the people’s covenant King and alludes to the covenant relationship between them. On the other hand, Adonai is associated with sovereignty and authority. Used in a relationship, Adonai can have overtones of distance and formality. In this context, the use of Adonai appears to reflect the people’s uncertainty over their relationship with God, especially due to the judgment and desolation experienced.1