1A Song of degrees. When the LORD turned again the captivity of Zion, we were like them that dream.2Then 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.3The LORD hath done great things for us; whereof we are glad.4Turn again our captivity, O LORD, as the streams in the south.5They that sow in tears shall reap in joy.6He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him .
1A Song of Ascents. When the Lord restored the fortunes of Zion, we were like those who dream. (Ps 14:7; Ps 120:1; Ac 12:9)2Then our mouth was filled with laughter, and our tongue with shouts of joy; then they said among the nations, “The Lord has done great things for them.” (Job 8:21; Ps 71:19)3The Lord has done great things for us; we are glad.4Restore our fortunes, O Lord, like streams in the Negeb!5Those who sow in tears shall reap with shouts of joy! (Ezr 6:22; Ne 12:43; Jer 31:9; Hag 2:3; Ga 6:9)6He who goes out weeping, bearing the seed for sowing, shall come home with shouts of joy, bringing his sheaves with him.