Summary
The Book of Lamentations by John Goldingay (NICOT) is a thoughtful, pastorally sensitive yet scholarly commentary on one of the Bible’s most moving books. Goldingay begins with a robust introduction exploring background, authorship, textual issues, theology, and the social-historical context behind Lamentations. Then he provides his own English translation based on the Masoretic Text and delivers a verse-by-verse commentary. The commentary reflects deep engagement with the Hebrew, literary features such as the acrostic structure, ancient Near Eastern parallels, and theological themes — all while never losing sight of the grief, protest, and hope embedded in the poems.
Why Should I Own This Commentary?
First, this volume serves the preacher’s task with real care. Goldingay does not burden the text with endless linguistic minutiae that obscure the message. Instead he draws out how Lamentations confronts trauma, judgment, grief, and trust in Yahweh, themes that speak powerfully to churches facing suffering or uncertainty. The style is accessible yet serious, making it usable not just for seminaries but for busy pastors preparing sermons or group teaching.
Second, Goldingay brings a mature balance between historical-critical insight and reverent faith. He acknowledges uncertain matters responsibly, for example about authorship and dating, without forcing neat conclusions. He also helps the reader feel the emotional and theological weight of the poems. The “Reader’s Response” sections after each poem help the preacher imagine how original worshipers might have heard and lived these laments, a feature rare in academic commentaries.
Closing Recommendation
We believe this commentary is a strong addition to any pastor’s or teacher’s library. It stands as a bridge between scholarly insight and pastoral application, a resource that honours the original text and yet speaks to real hearts. For those wanting to preach or teach Lamentations with care, clarity, and theological weight, Goldingay’s work will not disappoint.
John Goldingay
John Goldingay is a British-born Old Testament scholar active in the late twentieth and twenty-first centuries, associated with Anglican and broadly evangelical traditions, though at points more eclectic in his approach.
Goldingay’s extensive contribution spans commentaries on Psalms, Isaiah, and the prophetic and narrative books, as well as substantial works in Old Testament theology. He combines linguistic and historical work with imaginative engagement, often inviting readers to hear the Old Testament afresh. His writing ranges from technical commentaries to more popular expositions, aiming to make the Old Testament speak clearly into the life of the church.
He is valued for breadth of learning, creativity, and a desire to let the text challenge modern assumptions. At the same time, readers from more conservative Reformed settings will want to read him with discernment at points.
Key titles include his multi-volume commentary on the Psalms and his Old Testament theology, alongside commentaries on major prophetic and narrative books.