Introduction to the Book of Lamentations

The book of Lamentations is a collection of five poems lamenting the destruction of Jerusalem in 586 B.C., and its aftermath of ruin and exile. In spite of the mournful nature of most of the book, there is also the note of trust in God and hope for the future. These poems are used by the Jews in worship on the annual days of fasting and mourning which commemorate the national disaster of 586 B.C.

Outline of Contents

1. The sorrows of Jerusalem 1.1—22
2. The punishment of Jerusalem 2.1—22
3. Punishment and hope 3.1—66
4. Jerusalem in ruins 4.1—22
5. A prayer for mercy 5.1—22

Source:

The Book of Book of Lamentations. (1972). In Catholic (Ed.), May they be one Bible: Good news translation (2013 ed., p. 1137). Bible Society.