Psalms 126

1 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.

“A song of the degrees.” When the Lord bringeth back again the captivity of Zion, then shall we be like dreamers.

2 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!”

Then shall our mouth be filled with laughter, and our tongue with singing: then shall they say among the nations, Great things hath the Lord done for these.

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

Great things would the Lord have done for us, [whereat] we should be joyful.

4 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.

Bring back again, O Lord, our captivity, like rivulets in arid land.

5 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.

Those that sow in tears shall reap with joyful song.

6 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].

He goeth forth indeed and weepeth, that beareth the seed for sowing; but he will surely come with joyful song when he beareth [home] his sheaves.