We are become a reproach to our neighbours, a scorn and derision to them that are round about us.
Ver. 4. We are become a reproach to our neighbours] To the Edomites, Philistines, Syrians, Tyrians, &c., who do now compose comedies out of our tragedies.
A scorn and derision to them that are round about us] Quorum opprobriis, ludibriis, et contumeliis sumus expositi. This was more grievous to them than stripes or wounds, saith Chrysostom; because these being inflicted upon the body, are divided after a sort between soul and body; but scorns and reproaches do wound the soul only. Habet quendam aculeum contumelia, they leave a sting behind them, as Cicero observeth, Actio in Ver.