Self-Interpreting Bible

Psalms 126

[1]The church celebrating her incredible return out of captivity, [4]prayeth for and prophesieth her own future joyfulness.

A Song of degrees.

1. When the LORD turned again the captivity of Zion, we were like them that dream.

2. Then was our mouth filled with laughter, and our tongue with singing: then said they among the heathen, The LORD hath done great things for them.

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

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

5. They that sow in tears shall reap in joy.

6. He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.

Metrical version

Psalm 126

C.M. St. Matthew, St. Leonard

When Zion's bondage GOD turned back,
as men that dreamed were we.
Then filled with laughter was our mouth,
our tongue with melody:

They 'mong the heathen said, The LORD
great things for them hath wrought.
The LORD hath done great things for us,
whence joy to us is brought.

As streams of water in the south,
our bondage, LORD, recall.
Who sow in tears, a reaping time
of joy enjoy they shall.

That man who, bearing precious seed,
in going forth doth mourn,
He doubtless, bringing back his sheaves,
rejoicing shall return.

This psalm relates to some remarkable deliverance of the Jewish church, perhaps from Babylon, as typical of those of the gospel church; and, (1.) Represents great admiration of, and thankfulness for the deliverance, ver. 1-3. (2.) Contains prayers for, and encouragement to saints exercised with tribulations, ver. 4-6.

While I sing, let me admire the Lord's kindness to my country, to his gospel church - to mankind - to my soul. And, in my remaining distress, personal or relative, let me sow in mourning and supplication, that I may through grace reap joyful deliverances, and everlasting consolations.