Lamentations 2:16

All, &c. In some Codices, with Syriac, Lamentations 2:16 and Lamentations 2:17 are transposed to bring the letters Ayin and Pe into alphabetical order. The Septuagint leaves the verses, but transposes the letters. This is done because it is supposed to be a mistake. But it cannot be, because the same order appears in Lamentations 3:0 and Lamentations 4:0 , and in the former case it occurs three times, although the subject-matter allows no such break. It is easier to believe that the outward artificial form is sacrificed to call our attention to the greater importance of the utterance. In Lamentations 2:16 we learn what the enemy thought and said; but, as the Ayin really precedes the Pe , so we are reminded that this was only owing to Jehovah's purpose which had been revealed centuries before. See note on Lamentations 2:17 .