The Book of Ezekiel and Mesopotamian City Laments

This scholarly work examines the influence of ancient Mesopotamian city lament traditions on the composition and structure of Ezekiel. It identifies nine shared features between the two genres, including divine abandonment, communal mourning, and the hope for restoration. The analysis suggests that the prophet's geographical proximity to Nippur—a city associated with one of the five historical Mesopotamian city laments—may have facilitated the integration of these lament elements into his writings. By exploring these parallels, the study offers insights into the organizational framework and thematic development of the biblical text, highlighting the adaptation of Mesopotamian lament motifs to address the theological and communal concerns of the exilic community.