Psalms 126

1 A Canticle in steps. When the Lord turned back the captivity of Zion, we became like those who are consoled.

A SONG OF THE ASCENTS. In YHWH’s turning back [to] the captivity of Zion, We have been as dreamers.

2 Then our mouth was filled with gladness and our tongue with exultation. Then they will say among the nations: “The Lord has done great things for them.”

Then our mouth is filled [with] laughter, And our tongue [with] singing, Then they say among nations, “YHWH did great things with these.”

3 The Lord has done great things for us. We have become joyful.

YHWH did great things with us, We have been joyful.

4 Convert our captivity, O Lord, like a torrent in the south.

Turn again, O YHWH, [to] our captivity, As streams in the south.

5 Those who sow in tears shall reap in exultation.

Those sowing in tears, reap with singing,

6 When departing, they went forth and wept, sowing their seeds. But when returning, they will arrive with exultation, carrying their sheaves.

Whoever goes on and weeps, Carrying the basket of seed, Surely comes in with singing, carrying his sheaves!