Psalms 126

1 When the lord brought back the captivity of Sion, we became like men comforted.

When Yahweh brought [us Israeli people] back to Jerusalem (OR, enabled us Israelis to prosper again), [it was wonderful]; it seemed as though [SIM] we were dreaming.

2 Then was our mouth filled with gladness; and our tongue with joy. Then shall they say among the Gentiles: The Lord hath done great things for them.

We were extremely happy, and we [SYN] continued shouting joyfully. Then the [other] people-groups said about us, “Yahweh has done great things for them!”

3 The Lord hath done great things for us: we are become joyful.

[And we say, “Yes], Yahweh [truly] has done great things for us, and we are [very] happy.”

4 Turn again our captivity, O Lord, as a stream in the south.

Yahweh, when it rains, water flows in the streams again [after they were dry] [SIM]. Similarly, enable our nation to become great again like it was before.

5 They that sow in tears shall reap in joy.

We cried when we planted [seeds because it was hard work preparing the soil that had not been plowed for many years]; [now we want to] shout joyfully because we are gathering a [big] harvest.

6 Going they went and wept, casting their seeds. But coming they shall come with joyfulness, carrying their sheaves.

Those who cried as they carried the [bags of] seeds [to the fields] will shout joyfully when they bring the crops [to their houses at harvest time].