Thanksgiving for Return from Captivity.

A Song of [a]Ascents.

1When the LORD brought back the captives to Zion (Jerusalem),

We were like those who dream [it seemed so unreal].

2Then our mouth was filled with laughter

And our tongue with joyful shouting;

Then they said among the nations,

“The LORD has done great things for them.”

3The LORD has done great things for us;

We are glad!

4Restore our [b]captivity, O LORD,

As the stream-beds in the South (the Negev) [are restored by torrents of rain].

5They who sow in tears shall reap with joyful singing.

6He who goes back and forth weeping, carrying his bag of seed [for planting],

Will indeed come again with a shout of joy, bringing his sheaves with him.