Psalms 126

1 A Song of Ascents. When the LORD brought back those that returned to Zion, we were like unto them that dream.

A song for pilgrims going up to Jerusalem. When the Lord brought his people back from captivity to Zion, it was as if we were dreaming!

2 Then was our mouth filled with laughter, and our tongue with singing; then said they among the nations: 'The LORD hath done great things with these.'

We laughed so much, we sang for joy. The other nations said, “The Lord has done wonderful things for these people.”

3 The LORD hath done great things with us; we are rejoiced.

The Lord certainly has done wonderful things for us. How happy we were!

4 Turn our captivity, O LORD, as the streams in the dry land.

Please return and help us again, Lord. Renew us like streams of water that renew the Negev desert.

5 They that sow in tears shall reap in joy.

Those who sow in tears will reap with shouts of joy!

6 Though he goeth on his way weeping that beareth the measure of seed, he shall come home with joy, bearing his sheaves.

Those who weep as they go out to sow their seed will be singing in celebration when they carry the harvest home.