Dante Between Hope and Despair: The Tradition of Lamentations in the Divine Comedy
Ronald L. Martínez
During the interfaith service conducted at Washington Cathedral September , , Rabbi Joshua Haberman read verses from book of Lamentations, traditionally attributed to prophet Jeremiah. As laments fall Jerusalem Nebuchadnezzar in  b.c., its choice as a text after  was highly pertinent; chapter three, which Haberman’s excerpts were taken, offers some few expressions hope that primarily expresses grief. In addition on occasion, three includes cluster sentiments have been widely shared United States nation has grappled with meaning disaster. Americans felt dismay savage blow inflicted by shadowy enemies, and experienced problematic reflex desiring vindication, even revenge, God involved history might be entreated compass behalf those believing Him; but they also engaged anguished speculation why such fell stroke visited upon nation, cases reflected where our own responsibilities lie provoking wrath. The Lamentations 
Logos: A Journal of Catholic Thought and Culture