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.
Psalm 126
New International Reader’s Version
A song for those who go up to Jerusalem to worship the Lord.
1Our enemies took us away from Zion. But when the LORD brought us home, it seemed like a dream to us.2Our mouths were filled with laughter. Our tongues sang with joy. Then the people of other nations said, ‘The LORD has done great things for them.’3The LORD has done great things for us. And we are filled with joy.4LORD, bless us with great success again, as rain makes streams flow in the Negev Desert.5Those who cry as they plant their crops will sing with joy when they gather them in.6Those who go out weeping as they carry seeds to plant will come back singing with joy. They will bring the new crop back with them.