1When the Lord restored the fortunes of[1] Zion, we were like those who dreamed.[2]2Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy. Then it was said among the nations, ‘The Lord has done great things for them.’3The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy.4Restore our fortunes,[3] Lord, like streams in the Negev.5Those who sow with tears will reap with songs of joy.6Those who go out weeping, carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with them.
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.