Lamentations 3:36

KJV

To subvert a man in his cause, the Lord approveth not.

KJV (with Strong's)

To subvert {H5791} a man {H120} in his cause {H7379}, the Lord {H136} approveth {H7200} not.

Complete Jewish Bible

when someone is cheated of justice in court -does Adonai not take note of such things?

Berean Standard Bible

to subvert a man in his lawsuit— of these the Lord does not approve.

American Standard Version

To subvert a man in his cause, the Lord approveth not.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Lamentations 3:36 serves as a profound declaration of God's unwavering moral character and His absolute opposition to injustice, even amidst the deep suffering and judgment experienced by His people. It unequivocally asserts that the Lord does not approve of any act that perverts justice or unfairly undermines an individual's rightful claim or legal standing. This verse underscores God's inherent righteousness, His commitment to equity, and His complete moral revulsion against corruption, manipulation, and the misuse of power, offering a foundational truth about divine justice that transcends human failings and societal brokenness.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Lamentations 3 stands as the emotional and theological core of the book, shifting from the communal lament of the preceding chapters to a deeply personal expression of suffering by the prophet, yet remarkably culminating in an articulation of hope and steadfast trust in God's enduring faithfulness. Structured as an alphabetic acrostic, this chapter reflects a meticulous and intentional effort to process overwhelming grief and theological questions. The verses immediately preceding [Lamentations 3:36](/lamentations/3-36 "Lamentations 3:36 - God Disapproves of Injustice"), specifically [Lamentations 3:34-35](/lamentations/3-34-35 "Lamentations 3:34-35 - Condemnation of Oppression"), directly condemn the crushing of prisoners and the turning aside of a person's right before the Most High. Therefore, [Lamentations 3:36](/lamentations/3-36 "Lamentations 3:36 - God Disapproves of Injustice") functions as a direct theological affirmation, declaring that such acts of injustice are not merely human evils but are explicitly contrary to God's will and nature. The subsequent verses, [Lamentations 3:37-39](/lamentations/3-37-39 "Lamentations 3:37-39 - God's Sovereignty and Human Responsibility"), further explore God's ultimate sovereignty over all circumstances, including suffering, while simultaneously upholding human accountability and God's blamelessness concerning the perversion of justice.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The book of Lamentations is traditionally attributed to the prophet Jeremiah, written in the immediate aftermath of the catastrophic destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonian Empire in 586 BC and the subsequent exile of the people of Judah. This period was characterized by unparalleled national trauma, immense loss, and pervasive injustice. The people had not only suffered at the hands of foreign conquerors but had also, at times, experienced the perversion of justice within their own society, a reality frequently condemned by earlier prophets like Isaiah and Amos, who decried the corruption of judges and leaders who oppressed the poor and vulnerable. In ancient Israelite society, the legal system was divinely ordained to reflect God's perfect justice, as meticulously detailed in the Mosaic Law. However, the practical application often fell short, with the powerful frequently exploiting the weak and subverting due process. Thus, the powerful declaration in [Lamentations 3:36](/lamentations/3-36 "Lamentations 3:36 - God Disapproves of Injustice") would have resonated profoundly with a people who had firsthand experience of the devastating consequences of systemic injustice and the brutal subversion of their fundamental rights.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several foundational themes within Lamentations and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Justice and Righteousness**, asserting God's inherent moral perfection and His unwavering opposition to any act that perverts justice or unfairly disadvantages an individual in their rightful cause. This underscores God's unblemished character, a consistent theme found throughout the Psalms (e.g., [Psalm 7:11](/psalms/7-11 "Psalm 7:11 - God as a Righteous Judge")) and prophetic books (e.g., [Amos 5:24](/amos/5-24 "Amos 5:24 - Justice Like a River")). Secondly, it emphasizes God's **Active Opposition to Injustice**, explicitly stating His disapproval of "subverting a man in his cause." This speaks to God's active condemnation of corruption, manipulation, and the misuse of power within legal or social systems, affirming the sanctity of truth and equity in human dealings. Finally, the verse subtly contributes to the theme of **Hope in God's Character**, even amidst the profound suffering and judgment. While the people faced divine discipline, this verse serves as a crucial reminder that God's own character remains the unwavering standard of truth and justice, offering comfort that the Lord sees and does not condone the wrongs committed against His people, even if He allows a season of discipline for their ultimate good.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **subvert (Hebrew, _ʻâvath'_):** From the primitive root H5791, meaning "to wrest," "to make crooked," or "to pervert." In the context of a legal or personal "cause," it signifies a deliberate act of distorting truth, twisting facts, or unfairly overturning a rightful claim. It speaks to intentional corruption and manipulation designed to disadvantage an individual, often through deceit, bribery, or abuse of power, making straight paths crooked.
* **cause (Hebrew, _rîyb'_):** From H7379, this term refers to a "contest," specifically a "personal or legal dispute," "controversy," or "suit." It denotes the case, argument, or legitimate claim presented by an individual, highlighting their rightful grievance or standing that is being unjustly undermined. It encompasses not just formal legal proceedings but any situation where a person's rights, reputation, or just due are at stake.
* **approveth not (Hebrew, _râʼâh'_):** The Hebrew word H7200, _râʼâh_, primarily means "to see," "to look upon," or "to behold." When combined with the negative particle "not" (Hebrew: _lō'_), it conveys a strong and emphatic sense of divine disapproval. It means God does not look favorably upon, does not endorse, does not sanction, and certainly does not tolerate such actions. This signifies God's complete moral revulsion against injustice and the perversion of truth, highlighting His absolute righteousness and His active stance against all forms of unrighteousness.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"To subvert a man in his cause":** This clause precisely describes the act of injustice itself. The verb "subvert" (Hebrew: `ʻâvath`) denotes a deliberate act of twisting, distorting, or making crooked, specifically in a legal or ethical sense. "A man" (Hebrew: `ʼâdâm`) refers to any human being, emphasizing the universal nature of the victim and the broad applicability of this moral principle. "In his cause" (Hebrew: `rîyb`) refers to a legal dispute, controversy, or rightful claim. Thus, the phrase collectively depicts the intentional undermining, manipulation, or corruption of justice to unfairly disadvantage an individual in their legitimate pursuit of fairness, truth, or vindication. This could involve false testimony, bribery, judicial bias, political maneuvering, or any act that denies a person their just due and rightful standing.
* **"the Lord approveth not":** This second clause declares God's unequivocal and absolute stance against such injustice. "The Lord" (Hebrew: `ʼĂdônây`), an emphatic title for God, underscores His supreme authority, His covenant faithfulness, and His absolute moral purity as the ultimate Judge. "Approveth not" (Hebrew: `lō' râʼâh`) literally means "He does not see (favorably)" or "He does not look upon (with pleasure)." This is a powerful expression of divine disapproval, signifying that such acts are anathema to God's character and are met with His moral indignation. It highlights God's perfect righteousness and His unwavering commitment to truth and equity, serving as a profound reassurance that even when human systems fail or are corrupted, the ultimate Judge stands firmly against injustice and will ultimately bring all things to light.

#### Literary Devices
Lamentations 3:36, though remarkably concise, employs several potent literary devices to convey its profound theological truth. The most prominent is **Antithesis**, which creates a sharp and impactful contrast between the human act of injustice ("To subvert a man in his cause") and the divine response ("the Lord approveth not"). This stark juxtaposition powerfully emphasizes the moral chasm between human sin and divine righteousness. The verse also functions as a form of **Didacticism**, serving as a direct moral instruction or a declarative theological truth. It is not merely an observation but a definitive statement about God's character and His active opposition to specific forms of evil, guiding the reader's understanding of divine morality and justice. Furthermore, the use of "the Lord" (Adonai) carries significant weight, employing **Divine Authority** to lend absolute and unquestionable finality to the pronouncement against injustice, reinforcing that this is not merely a human ethical standard but a divine decree rooted in God's very nature.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Lamentations 3:36 profoundly articulates a core biblical truth about God's character: He is inherently just and righteous, and He actively opposes all forms of injustice. This verse resonates deeply with the consistent portrayal of God throughout Scripture as the ultimate Judge who demands equity and fairness in human society. It underscores the divine standard against which all human actions, especially those related to legal and social justice, are measured. Even in a book filled with lament over God's judgment and the suffering of His people, this verse serves as a crucial reminder that God himself is not the author or approver of the very injustices His people experienced at the hands of their oppressors. His nature remains pure, and His commitment to justice unwavering, providing a foundational truth for hope and a call to righteous living.

* [Proverbs 17:23](/proverbs/17-23 "Proverbs 17:23 - Bribery and Perversion of Justice")
* [Psalm 7:11](/psalms/7-11 "Psalm 7:11 - God as a Righteous Judge")
* [Amos 5:24](/amos/5-24 "Amos 5:24 - Justice Like a River")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Lamentations 3:36 offers profound implications for believers today, calling us to embody God's character in a world still rife with injustice. Firstly, it compels us to cultivate uncompromising integrity and fairness in all our dealings, whether in personal disputes, professional environments, or community interactions. Knowing that God disapproves of any act that perverts justice should motivate us to be truthful, equitable, and transparent, even when it is costly or unpopular. This means resisting the temptation to manipulate facts, spread rumors, or use power to gain an unfair advantage. Secondly, this verse serves as a powerful impetus for advocacy. Recognizing God's active opposition to injustice, we are called to speak up for the oppressed, support righteous causes, and work towards equitable solutions in society, reflecting God's heart for justice. This may involve supporting legal aid, advocating for policy changes, or simply standing with those who are marginalized. Finally, for those who have personally experienced the sting of injustice, whether in legal systems, relationships, or societal structures, this verse offers immense comfort and profound hope. It reassures us that God sees the wrong, He does not approve of it, and ultimately, His perfect justice will prevail, providing a foundation for trust and ultimate vindication, even when human justice fails.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life or community might you be unknowingly "subverting a cause" or contributing to injustice, and how can you align your actions with God's approval?**
* **How does knowing that "the Lord approveth not" of injustice empower you to stand up for righteousness in a world that often tolerates or even promotes unfairness?**
* **If you have experienced injustice, how does the truth of this verse bring you comfort, and how can you rest in God's ultimate justice rather than seeking personal retribution?**

### FAQ
**What does "subvert a man in his cause" mean practically in today's context?**

Answer: In today's context, "to subvert a man in his cause" refers to any action that unjustly undermines a person's legitimate rights, claims, or reputation. This can manifest in various ways: manipulating legal proceedings through false testimony or bribery, spreading false rumors to ruin someone's standing, intentionally misrepresenting facts in a dispute, abusing power to deny someone a fair hearing, or even creating systemic barriers that prevent certain individuals or groups from accessing justice. It speaks to any deliberate act that twists truth or fairness to disadvantage another person, whether in a courtroom, workplace, community, or personal relationship. It is a broad condemnation of all forms of corruption and unfairness that deny an individual their rightful due.

**Why is this verse, which speaks of God's disapproval of injustice, found in the book of Lamentations, a book primarily focused on suffering and judgment?**

Answer: This verse is strategically placed in [Lamentations 3](/lamentations/3 "Lamentations 3 - The Prophet's Hope and God's Faithfulness"), a chapter that, while acknowledging deep suffering, also pivots towards hope and a reflection on God's character. Its inclusion serves several critical purposes. Firstly, it clarifies that while God allowed judgment to come upon Judah due to their sin, He Himself is not the author or approver of the injustices they experienced from their oppressors or from within their own corrupt society. It maintains God's moral purity even amidst His disciplinary actions. Secondly, it offers a glimmer of hope and comfort to the suffering people, reminding them that the Lord sees their plight and condemns the very wrongs committed against them. It affirms that their ultimate vindication rests with a righteous God. Thirdly, it reinforces the consistent biblical theme that God is inherently just ([Psalm 7:11](/psalms/7-11 "Psalm 7:11 - God as a Righteous Judge")), providing a foundational truth that grounds the lament in divine righteousness and offers a basis for future restoration.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Lamentations 3:36 finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in the person and work of Jesus Christ. He is the preeminent "man" whose "cause" was most grievously subverted. Throughout His earthly ministry, Jesus consistently championed the cause of the poor, the marginalized, and the oppressed, often confronting those who perverted justice and exploited others ([Matthew 23:23](/matthew/23-23 "Matthew 23:23 - Woe to the Pharisees")). Yet, in the climactic events of His passion, Jesus Himself became the victim of the most profound subversion of justice. His trial was a travesty, marked by false witnesses, biased judges, and political expediency, culminating in an unjust condemnation and crucifixion ([Mark 14:55-64](/mark/14-55-64 "Mark 14:55-64 - Jesus' Trial Before the Sanhedrin") and [John 19:1-16](/john/19-1-16 "John 19:1-16 - Jesus Before Pilate")). However, the "Lord approveth not" of such injustice, and in Christ, this divine disapproval is not merely a declaration but a redemptive act. Through His perfect life, atoning death, and glorious resurrection, Jesus not only exposed the depths of human injustice but also provided the ultimate remedy for it. He became the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), bearing the injustice of humanity upon Himself. Furthermore, Jesus is the [righteous Judge](/2_timothy/4-8 "2 Timothy 4:8 - The Righteous Judge") who will one day return to establish perfect justice, righting every wrong and bringing every hidden thing into the light ([Acts 17:31](/acts/17-31 "Acts 17:31 - God's Appointed Judge")). His kingdom is characterized by righteousness, peace, and justice, and those who follow Him are called to embody these values, pursuing justice and loving mercy as reflections of their Lord ([Micah 6:8](/micah/6-8 "Micah 6:8 - What the Lord Requires")). Thus, [Lamentations 3:36](/lamentations/3-36 "Lamentations 3:36 - God Disapproves of Injustice") points to Christ as both the ultimate victim of injustice and the sovereign Lord who will ultimately bring about perfect justice, fulfilling God's promise to never approve of the perversion of a man's cause.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Habakkuk 1:13

[Thou art] of purer eyes than to behold evil, and canst not look on iniquity: wherefore lookest thou upon them that deal treacherously, [and] holdest thy tongue when the wicked devoureth [the man that is] more righteous than he?

Isaiah 59:15

Yea, truth faileth; and he [that] departeth from evil maketh himself a prey: and the LORD saw [it], and it displeased him that [there was] no judgment.

Jeremiah 22:3

Thus saith the LORD; Execute ye judgment and righteousness, and deliver the spoiled out of the hand of the oppressor: and do no wrong, do no violence to the stranger, the fatherless, nor the widow, neither shed innocent blood in this place.

2 Samuel 11:27

And when the mourning was past, David sent and fetched her to his house, and she became his wife, and bare him a son. But the thing that David had done displeased the LORD.