Psalms 126

1A gradual canticle of Solomon. Unless the Lord build the house, they labour in vain that build it. Unless the Lord keep the city, he watcheth in vain that keepeth it.

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

2It is vain for you to rise before light, rise ye after you have sitten, you that eat the bread of sorrow. When he shall give sleep to his beloved,

2 Then was our mouth filled with laughter, and our tongue with rejoicing: then said they among the nations, Jehovah hath done great things for them.

3Behold the inheritance of the Lord are children: the reward, the fruit of the womb.

3 Jehovah hath done great things for us; [and] we are joyful.

4As arrows in the hand of the mighty, so the children of them that have been shaken.

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

5Blessed is the man that hath filled the desire with them; he shall not be confounded when he shall speak to his enemies in the gate.

5 They that sow in tears shall reap with rejoicing:

6(not in this translation)

6 He goeth forth and weepeth, bearing seed for scattering; he cometh again with rejoicing, bearing his sheaves.