Definition: Behold, O LORD; for I [am] in distress: my bowels are troubled; mine heart is turned within me; for I have grievously rebelled: abroad the sword bereaveth, at home [there is] as death.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse together. It’s a really powerful and poetic passage from the Book of Lamentations. Here’s an explanation in simpler terms: Overall Meaning: This verse describes a deep and intense feeling of sorrow and distress caused by a serious sin. The speaker is overwhelmed with worry and regret. Let's look at each part: “Lamentations 1:20 Behold, O LORD; for I [am] in distress:” – “Behold” means "look!" This is a direct address to God, acknowledging that the speaker is experiencing a significant problem. "In distress" simply means they are feeling worried or upset. The word “Lord” emphasizes this is a serious matter addressed to God. “My bowels are troubled; mine heart is turned within me:” – This is a very strong way of saying "I am very sad and worried." "Bowels" refers to the digestive system, so it's about a feeling of pain or discomfort. “Turned within me” means that the speaker’s thoughts and emotions have been affected by their actions. “For I have grievously rebelled:” – “Rebelled” means to disobey or go against God’s rules. This is a key part - the speaker has done something wrong and disobeyed him. It's a significant act of wrongdoing. “Abroad the sword bereaveth, at home as death:” – This is the most dramatic and symbolic part. “Abroad the sword bereaveth”: This means “the sword that was taken away is lost.” A sword is a symbol of protection and victory. By losing it, something vital is gone. It suggests a loss of hope and security. “at home as death:” This is the most striking part. "Death" isn’t literal death; it represents the end of life, the loss of everything good. The speaker feels like their entire life is at stake – that they are facing irreversible consequences. Putting It All Together: The verse paints a picture of intense sorrow and regret. The speaker has disobeyed God and caused serious damage to themselves and potentially others. They’re so distressed that their heart is troubled, and they feel like they have lost everything – their hope, security, and even life itself. Important Note: This passage isn't about a simple mistake; it’s a profound expression of repentance and the consequences of sin. It emphasizes the seriousness of wrongdoing and the need for forgiveness and reconciliation with God. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Discuss its significance within the context of the larger story of Lamentations? Provide a different perspective on the meaning – perhaps focusing on the theme of repentance?