Psalms 126

1 When the LORD turned again the captivity of Zion, we were like 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 heathen, The LORD has done great things for them.

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

3 The LORD has done great things for us; whereof we are glad.

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

4 Turn again our captivity, O LORD, as the streams in the south.

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 He that goes forth and weeps, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.

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