Definition: Mine eyes do fail with tears, my bowels are troubled, my liver is poured upon the earth, for the destruction of the daughter of my people; because the children and the sucklings swoon in the streets of the city.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly poignant verse from Lamentations 2:11. It’s a really powerful and sad passage about profound grief and despair. Here's an explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Story: This verse comes from a book called Lamentations, which is written during a time of great suffering and loss after the destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonians. The author, who is essentially lamenting, is deeply heartbroken over the death of her son, Jeremiah. He’s experiencing so much pain – his tears are overflowing, his bowels are troubled, and he's feeling overwhelmed with grief. Let's unpack the words: “Mine eyes do fail with tears…” - This means his eyes are filled with tears, a huge outpouring of emotion. It’s a physical manifestation of his sorrow. “…my bowels are troubled…” – This is a metaphorical expression. It suggests a deep, internal anguish that's causing him pain and discomfort. His body is mirroring his emotional state. “…my liver is poured upon the earth…” - This is a very striking image. The 'liver' refers to Jeremiah’s life, his spirit, and his future. Pouring it upon the earth symbolizes that he's completely consumed by this grief – it's not just feeling sad; it’s devastating his entire being. “for the destruction of the daughter of my people…” - This is the core of the verse. Jeremiah is lamenting the loss of his child, specifically referring to Jerusalem and its people. He's mourning for their future and well-being. “because the children and the sucklings swoon in the streets of the city.” – This is a vivid image of suffering and despair. It describes a scene where innocent children are visibly weak, frightened, and lying on the ground, reflecting the hopelessness of the situation. Overall Meaning & Interpretation: The verse paints a picture of profound grief and devastation. Jeremiah isn’t just mourning about his son; he's experiencing a deep, overwhelming sorrow that is consuming him. It speaks to the devastating impact of loss and the feeling of being utterly broken by tragedy. It highlights the immense pain he feels when witnessing the destruction of something precious – in this case, his child and his people. Why it’s significant: Lamentations 2:11 is a classic example of biblical poetry - it's not just a simple statement of sadness; it conveys a powerful sense of spiritual suffering and longing for restoration. It shows that even amidst immense pain, there can be a profound expression of faith and a yearning for hope. Do you want me to: Explain another part of the verse? Connect this passage to other biblical stories or themes? Discuss what it might mean in a broader context (like the story of the Babylonian exile)?