Lamentations 5:3

3 We have become orphans, having no father; our mothers are like widows.

Lamentations 5:3 Meaning and Commentary

Lamentations 5:3

We are orphans and fatherless
In every sense; in a natural sense, their fathers having been cut off by the sword, famine, or pestilence; in a civil sense, their king being taken from them; and in a religious sense, God having forsaken them for their sins: our mothers [are] as widows;
either really so, their husbands being dead; or were as if they had no husbands, they not being able to provide for them, protect and deferred them. The Targum adds,

``whose husbands are gone to the cities of the sea, and it is doubtful whether they are alive.''

Some understand this politically, of their cities being desolate and defenceless.

Lamentations 5:3 In-Context

1 LORD, consider what has become of us; take notice of our disgrace. Look at it!

2 Our property has been turned over to strangers; our houses belong to foreigners.

3 We have become orphans, having no father; our mothers are like widows.

4 We drink our own water—but for a price; we gather our own wood—but pay for it.

5 Our hunters have been at our necks; we are worn out, but have no rest.