A tearful farmer sows near restored Jerusalem as joyful families return carrying abundant grain

Psalm 126

JPS TaNaKH 1917
Chapter overview
Psalm 126 remembers restoration so astonishing it felt like a dream. Laughter and international witness accompany return, while renewed prayer trusts that present tears and costly sowing will become songs and abundant harvest.
RestorationJoyTearsHarvest

About Psalms: book summary and outline →

1A Song of Ascents. When the LORD brought back those that returned to Zion, we were like unto them that dream.
2Then was our mouth filled with laughter, and our tongue with singing; then said they among the nations: 'The LORD hath done great things with these.'
3The LORD hath done great things with us; we are rejoiced.
4Turn our captivity, O LORD, as the streams in the dry land.
5They that sow in tears shall reap in joy.
6Though he goeth on his way weeping that beareth the measure of seed, he shall come home with joy, bearing his sheaves.

Verses to memorize from Psalm 126

  • Psalm 126:3The LORD hath done great things with us; we are rejoiced.
  • Psalm 126:5They that sow in tears shall reap in joy.

JPS TaNaKH 1917 — Public Domain. Where these translations come from.