1. Lamentations 2:3 (NEG79)
  2. Explication du texte

What is the significance and meaning of God “cut[ting] down all the might of Israel”?

Lamentations 2:3 (NEG79)

3 Il a, dans son ardente colère, abattu toute la force d'Israël; Il a retiré sa droite en présence de l'ennemi; Il a allumé dans Jacob des flammes de feu, Qui dévorent de tous côtés.

The word translated as might is the word for horn. It is a metaphor for pride and strength. When God exalted one’s horn, he gave power and honour to a person (see Lamentations 2:17; 1 Samuel 2:1,1 Samuel 2:10; Psalm 89:24, Psalm 112:9; Psalm 132:17). However, to exalt one’s own horn was to behave arrogantly (see Psalm 75:4–5). With the destruction of the kingdom, God has cut off the power and strength of the king and rulers.1 It also refers to the breaking of Judah’s military might. The kingdom was no longer able to defend itself, or attack its enemies.2 The phrase thus refers to the removal of offensive and defensive power (see Jeremiah 48:25).