Psalm 137:6

Translations

Modern

May my tongue cling to the roof of my mouth if I do not remember you, if I do not exalt Jerusalem as my greatest joy!

Traditional

If I do not remember thee, let my tongue cleave to the roof of my mouth; if I prefer not Jerusalem above my chief joy.

Literal

May my tongue cling to my palate, if I do not remember you, if I do not exalt Jerusalem above my chief joy!

Latin

Adhæreat lingua mea faucibus meis, si non meminero tui; si non proposuero Jerusalem in principio lætitiæ meæ.

Original

Hebrew

English

May my tongue cling to the roof of my mouth if I do not remember you, if I do not exalt Jerusalem as my greatest joy!

Notes

Psalms 137:5–6

The psalmist pledges his loyalty to Jerusalem, the city at the center of God’s reign and the location of fellowship with him.

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

Related verses

Ezekiel 3:26
I will make your tongue stick to the roof of your mouth, and you will be silent and unable to rebuke them, though they are a rebellious house.
Psalm 22:15
My strength is dried up like a potsherd, and my tongue sticks to the roof of my mouth. You lay me in the dust of death.
Isaiah 41:17
The poor and needy seek water, but there is none; their tongues are parched with thirst. I, the LORD, will answer them; I, the God of Israel, will not forsake them.
Job 29:10
The voices of the nobles were hushed, and their tongues stuck to the roofs of their mouths.
Psalm 84:10
For better is one day in Your courts than a thousand elsewhere. I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of the wicked.
Lamentations 4:4
The nursing infant’s tongue clings in thirst to the roof of his mouth. Little children beg for bread, but no one gives them any.
1 Thessalonians 3:7–9
For this reason, brothers, in all our distress and persecution, we have been reassured about you, because of your faith.
Acts 20:24
But I consider my life of no value to me, if only I may finish my course and complete the ministry I have received from the Lord Jesus—the ministry of testifying to the good news of God’s grace.
Matthew 6:33
But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you.
Philippians 1:20
I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have complete boldness so that now as always Christ will be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death.

Parallels

Ezekiel 1:1–3

Places

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

Glossary

Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) Curse, Cursed 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 Jerusalem: The Jews: Loved Music: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To Patriotism: General Scriptures Concerning The Jews: National Character of Love of Country

Psalm 137:6

Translations?

Original?

Notes?

Related verses?

Parallels?