Psalm 137:1

Translations

Modern

By the rivers of Babylon we sat and wept when we remembered Zion.

Traditional

By the rivers of Babylon, there we sat down, yea, we wept, when we remembered Zion.

Literal

By the rivers of Babylon, there we sat down and we wept in our remembering Zion.

Latin

Psalmus David, Jeremiæ. Super flumina Babylonis illic sedimus et flevimus, cum recordaremur Sion.

Original

Hebrew

English

By the rivers of Babylon we sat and wept when we remembered Zion.

Notes

Psalms 137:1–9

In response to the pain of exile (Psalm 137:1–4), the psalmist decides to remember Jerusalem, even though the memories cause him pain (137:4–6). He also speaks a strong prayer asking God to bring justice on his enemies (Psalm 137:7–9).

Theme notes and profiles

Prayers for Vengeance Psalms of Suffering Zion

Related verses

Ezekiel 1:1
In the thirtieth year, on the fifth day of the fourth month, while I was among the exiles by the River Kebar, the heavens opened and I saw visions of God.
Ezekiel 3:15
I came to the exiles at Tel-abib who dwelt by the River Kebar. And for seven days I sat where they sat and remained there among them, overwhelmed.
Lamentations 3:48
Streams of tears flow from my eyes over the destruction of the daughter of my people.
Ezekiel 1:3
…the word of the LORD came directly to Ezekiel the priest, the son of Buzi, in the land of the Chaldeans by the River Kebar. And there the LORD’s hand was upon him.
Lamentations 2:10–11
The elders of the Daughter of Zion sit on the ground in silence. They have thrown dust on their heads and put on sackcloth. The young women of Jerusalem have bowed their heads to the ground.
Lamentations 2:18
The hearts of the people cry out to the Lord. O wall of the Daughter of Zion, let your tears run down like a river day and night. Give yourself no relief, and your eyes no rest.
Jeremiah 51:50–51
You who have escaped the sword, depart and do not linger! Remember the LORD from far away, and let Jerusalem come to mind.”
Psalm 102:9–14
For I have eaten ashes like bread and mixed my drink with tears
Luke 19:41
As Jesus approached Jerusalem and saw the city, He wept over it
Job 2:12–13
When they lifted up their eyes from afar, they could barely recognize Job. They began to weep aloud, and each man tore his robe and threw dust in the air over his head.
Jeremiah 15:17
I never sat with the band of revelers, nor did I celebrate with them. Because Your hand was on me, I sat alone, for You have filled me with indignation.
Nehemiah 2:3
…and replied to the king, “May the king live forever! Why should I not be sad when the city where my fathers are buried lies in ruins, and its gates have been destroyed by fire?”

Parallels

Ezekiel 1:1–3

Places

Babylon: Ancient Mesopotamian city, capital of Babylonian Empire, site of the Tower of Babel Jerusalem: The capital of Israel, a holy city for three religions

Glossary

Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) Exodus, the Imprecatory Psalms Joy Music Psalms, Book of

Topics

Babylon: Grief of the Jews In Babylon: Watered by the Rivers Euphrates and Tigris Church: Love For Church: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To Church: Zion Cities: Built: Beside Rivers Country: Love of Jerusalem: Beloved Music: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To Patriotism: General Scriptures Concerning Prophecies Concerning Israel: Captivity of Patriotism of Psalms: Afflictions Rivers of Babylon Rivers: Banks of Places of Common Resort Rivers: Cities often Built Beside Select Readings in Captivity The Euphrates: Frequented by the Captive Jews Zion: Collectively, the Place, the Forms, and the Assemblies of Israelite Worship

Psalm 137:1

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