Psalm 126:1

Translations

Modern

A song of ascents. When the LORD restored the captives of Zion, we were like dreamers.

Traditional

A Song of degrees. When the Lord turned again the captivity of Zion, we were like them that dream.

Literal

A Song of the Ascents. In YHWH turning back the captivity of Zion, we were like those dreaming.

Latin

Canticum graduum. In convertendo Dominus captivitatem Sion, facti sumus sicut consolati.

Original

Hebrew

English

A song of ascents. When the LORD restored the captives of Zion, we were like dreamers.

Notes

Psalms 126:1–3

The Lord brought about Israel’s restoration from exile, just as he had brought Israel out of Egypt (Psalm 114:1). The restoration transformed the weeping of the Lord’s people into laughter and showed the Lord’s character to the nations (Psalm 9:11; 64:9; Isaiah 12:4).

Psalms 126:1–6

This psalm celebrates Israel's return from exile (Psalm 126:1–3). The psalmist then prays that God will fully restore the people (Psalm 126:4–6).

Psalms 120:1–134:3

These short and memorable songs were sung by pilgrims as they traveled to Jerusalem for the national festivals held three times each year (Deuteronomy 16:16). The title of these psalms includes a Hebrew word that can mean “steps” or “stairs.” Some scholars understand it to mean “going up to Jerusalem.” These psalms, often called the Songs of Ascents, lead the listener on a journey to Jerusalem to praise God for his goodness to Israel through history.

Theme notes and profiles

Making Sense of the Exile Zion

Related verses

Hosea 6:11
Also for you, O Judah, a harvest is appointed, when I restore My people from captivity.
Joel 3:1
“Yes, in those days and at that time, when I restore Judah and Jerusalem from captivity,
Psalm 85:1
For the choirmaster. A Psalm of the sons of Korah. You showed favor to Your land, O LORD; You restored Jacob from captivity.
Jeremiah 31:8–10
Behold, I will bring them from the land of the north and gather them from the farthest parts of the earth, including the blind and the lame, expectant mothers and women in labor. They will return as a great assembly!
Psalm 123:1
A song of ascents. I lift up my eyes to You, the One enthroned in heaven.
Psalm 120:1
A song of ascents. In my distress I cried to the LORD, and He answered me.
Psalm 53:6
Oh, that the salvation of Israel would come from Zion! When God restores His captive people, let Jacob rejoice, let Israel be glad!
Acts 12:9
So Peter followed him out, but he was unaware that what the angel was doing was real. He thought he was only seeing a vision.
Job 42:10
After Job had prayed for his friends, the LORD restored his prosperity and doubled his former possessions.
Psalm 125:1
A song of ascents. Those who trust in the LORD are like Mount Zion. It cannot be moved; it abides forever.
Psalm 124:1
A song of ascents. Of David. If the LORD had not been on our side—let Israel now declare—
Psalm 121:1
A song of ascents. I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come?

Places

Jerusalem: The capital of Israel, a holy city for three religions

Glossary

Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) Degrees, Song of Dreams Hallel Music Psalms, Book of Song of Ascents Song of Ascents, Song of Degrees Zion

Topics

Church: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To Israel, Prophecies Concerning: Captivity of Nehemiah is Commissioned to Lead the Remainder of the Captivity Praise: Psalms of, for God's Goodness to Israel Psalms: Thanksgiving Worship: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To

Psalm 126:1

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