Note: this section is the centre of the book of Lamentations. In this acrostic chapter each letter has three associated verses, and these are retained. There is clear parallel between verse 22 and verse 32. Verses 25-27 repeat that it is good for a person to wait patiently for YHWH. Verses 28-30 give three aspects of waiting patiently – keeping quiet and turning the other cheek in the face of adversity. The prophecy of the silent sufferings of the Lord Jesus at his trial is plain.
A.
ח
22 It is of the LORD’S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not.
23 They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.
24 The LORD is my portion, saith my soul; therefore will I hope (yahal) in him.
B.
ט
25 The LORD is good unto them that wait for him, to the soul that seeketh him.
26 It is good that a man should both hope (yahiyl) and quietly wait (dumam) for the salvation of the LORD.
27 It is good for a man that he bear the yoke in his youth.
B’.
י
28 He sitteth alone and keepeth silence (damam), because he hath borne it upon him.
29 He putteth his mouth in the dust; if so be there may be hope (tiqwa).
30 He giveth his cheek to him that smiteth him: he is filled full with reproach.
A’.
כ
31 For the Lord will not cast off for ever:
32 But though he cause grief, yet will he have compassion according to the multitude of his mercies.
33 For he doth not afflict willingly nor grieve the children of men.