Thomas Aquinas

Here is viewed the effect of divine blows. It is like a livid spot on a person's body, the effect from a rod inflicting blows. First is the weakening of powers of an entire people. For: "He has made my flesh": by which people eternally existing: and "my skin waste away": in which are delicate bones. Also: "my bones": in which are a strong warrior people. So, the Book of Baruch 3:10 says: "Why is it, O Israel, why is it that you are in the land of your enemies that you are growing old in a foreign country?"

Commentary on Lamentations ↗