Keraia
Psalm 137

Psalm 137:4

By the Rivers of Babylon · Psalm 137:1–9
Read Psalm 137

Translations

Modern
How can we sing a song of the LORD in a foreign land?
Traditional
How shall we sing the Lord’s song in a strange land?
Literal
How can we sing a song of YHWH in a foreign land?
Latin
Quomodo cantabimus canticum Domini in terra aliena?

Original

Hebrew
English
How can we sing a song of the LORD in a foreign land?

Notes

Psalms 137:2–4

Because the music of Jerusalem was connected to the joy of life in the promised land, the exile took away any reason to sing joyful songs. The Babylonians asked the Judeans to sing and dance for them, but the people were so full of grief that they could not do it.

The songs about the Lord celebrate his power and goodness, but his people were now filled with doubt and questions. They hung their harps in the trees, which may show that their joy had come to an end under God’s judgment (Deuteronomy 21:23).

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).

Parallels

Ezekiel 1:1–3

Glossary

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

Topics

Babylon: Grief of the Jews In Church: Love For Church: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To Country: Love of Jerusalem: Beloved Music: Generally Put Aside in Times of Affliction Music: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To Patriotism: General Scriptures Concerning