Luke 19:43

Luke 19:43. For. This introduces a prophetic proof that these things were hidden; and is also ‘the awful reason for the fervent wish just expressed' (Alford). Because our Lord knew that the judgment was inevitable, He voices His sorrow not only in loud weeping but in this pathetic unavailing wish.

Days shall come upon thee. There is a day of decision, but days of retribution. Comp. the discourse uttered two days afterwards (chap. Luke 21:7, etc.), and near the same spot (see on Matthew 24:3). From this very quarter these things came upon the city. The first Roman camp was pitched on this slope of the Mount of Olives.

Shall throw an embankment about thee. A palisaded mound is meant, and according to Josephus, this was the first regular operation in the siege under Titus.

And com - pass thee round, etc. This indicates a different and subsequent act. After the Jews burned the palisades, Titus erected a wall, which hemmed in the city. Hence the famine.