By the rivers of Babylon
This phrase sets the geographical and emotional context of the psalm. The rivers of Babylon, likely referring to the Euphrates and Tigris, were significant in the ancient world, symbolizing both the prosperity and the captivity of the Israelites. The Hebrew word for "rivers" (נְהָרוֹת, neharot) evokes images of flowing water, which can symbolize life and sustenance but also the passage of time and change. Historically, Babylon was a place of exile for the Israelites after the destruction of Jerusalem in 586 B.C. This setting underscores the deep sense of loss and longing for their homeland.

we sat and wept
The act of sitting and weeping conveys a profound sense of mourning and despair. In Hebrew culture, sitting was often associated with mourning, as seen in other scriptural contexts (e.g., Job 2:13). The Hebrew word for "wept" (בָּכִינוּ, bakinu) is a powerful expression of grief, indicating not just tears but a deep, soul-wrenching sorrow. This emotional response highlights the Israelites' deep connection to their homeland and the pain of being separated from it.

when we remembered Zion
Zion, a term often used to refer to Jerusalem, represents not just a physical location but also a spiritual and cultural center for the Israelites. The act of remembering (זָכַר, zakar) in Hebrew is more than a mental recall; it involves a deep, heartfelt reflection that stirs the soul. Zion symbolizes the presence of God, the temple, and the covenant promises. This remembrance is bittersweet, as it brings both comfort in recalling God's past faithfulness and pain in the current separation from the sacred city.

There
The word "there" situates the reader in a specific location, which is crucial for understanding the context of this verse. The Israelites are in Babylon, a foreign land where they are held captive. This word emphasizes the physical and emotional distance from their homeland, Jerusalem. It highlights the sense of displacement and longing for their true home, which is a recurring theme in the Bible, symbolizing the believer's journey through a world that is not their ultimate home.

on the willows
The "willows" mentioned here are likely the trees growing by the rivers of Babylon. In Hebrew, the word used is "עֲרָבִים" (aravim), which can refer to various types of trees, including willows. Willows are often associated with water, as they thrive near rivers and streams. This imagery evokes a sense of sorrow and lamentation, as willows are traditionally seen as symbols of mourning. The choice of this tree underscores the deep grief and lament of the Israelites in exile, separated from their land and their God.

we hung
The act of hanging their harps is a powerful symbol of the Israelites' despair and resignation. In Hebrew culture, music and singing were integral to worship and celebration. By hanging their harps, the Israelites are expressing their inability to sing the Lord's songs in a foreign land. This action signifies a pause in their worship, a moment of silence in the face of overwhelming sorrow. It reflects the deep spiritual and emotional impact of their captivity.

our harps
Harps, or "כִּנּוֹרוֹת" (kinnorot) in Hebrew, were stringed instruments used in worship and celebration. They are often associated with joy and praise in the Psalms. The mention of "our harps" indicates a personal and communal loss. These instruments, once used to glorify God in the temple, now hang unused in a foreign land. This image serves as a poignant reminder of the Israelites' lost joy and the interruption of their worship. It also symbolizes the hope that one day, they will return to their homeland and resume their songs of praise.

For there
This phrase sets the scene in a foreign land, specifically Babylon, where the Israelites found themselves in exile. The word "there" signifies a place of displacement and sorrow, far from their homeland. Historically, this was a period of great suffering for the Israelites, as they were removed from Jerusalem, the center of their worship and identity. Theologically, it represents a spiritual and physical separation from God’s promises.

our captors
The term "captors" refers to the Babylonians who had conquered Jerusalem and taken the Israelites into exile. In Hebrew, the word used here can also imply those who have taken possession or control. This highlights the power dynamics at play, where the Israelites were under the authority of a foreign power. Spiritually, it reflects the bondage of sin and the longing for deliverance.

requested a song
The act of requesting a song was not a benign request but a demand that added to the Israelites' humiliation. In the ancient Near Eastern context, music was often used in worship and celebration. Here, the captors' request was a mockery, as they sought entertainment from the very people they had oppressed. This can be seen as a metaphor for the world’s misunderstanding of the sacred and the holy.

our tormentors
The word "tormentors" intensifies the emotional and physical suffering experienced by the Israelites. It suggests not just captors but those who actively sought to inflict pain and distress. Historically, this reflects the harsh conditions of exile. Spiritually, it can be seen as the forces that seek to oppress and discourage believers in their faith journey.

demanded songs of joy
The demand for "songs of joy" is particularly cruel, as it asks for expressions of happiness from those in deep sorrow. The Hebrew root here implies a forceful request, highlighting the insensitivity and mockery of the captors. This phrase underscores the tension between the Israelites' current suffering and their memories of past joy in Zion. It serves as a reminder of the hope and joy found in God, even in times of distress.

Sing us one of the songs of Zion
"Songs of Zion" refers to the psalms and hymns that celebrated Jerusalem and the presence of God among His people. Zion, a term often used for Jerusalem, symbolizes the spiritual center of the Israelites' faith. The captors' demand for these songs was a way to ridicule the Israelites' faith and heritage. Yet, it also points to the enduring power and beauty of these songs, which continue to inspire and uplift believers. Theologically, it speaks to the hope of restoration and the ultimate return to God’s presence.

How can we
This phrase reflects a deep sense of perplexity and emotional turmoil. The Hebrew root here is "אֵיךְ" (eikh), which conveys a sense of questioning or wondering. It is not merely a rhetorical question but an expression of the Israelites' struggle to reconcile their faith with their current circumstances. This phrase sets the tone for the entire verse, highlighting the internal conflict faced by the exiles. It invites readers to consider the challenges of maintaining faith and worship in adverse conditions, a theme that resonates with believers who face trials and tribulations in their own lives.

sing a song
The act of singing, particularly in the context of worship, is significant in the Hebrew tradition. The Hebrew word for "sing" is "שִׁיר" (shir), which is often associated with joy, celebration, and the proclamation of God's glory. In this context, however, the exiles are questioning their ability to engage in such an act. Singing a song of the LORD is an expression of worship and devotion, and the inability to do so signifies a profound spiritual dislocation. This phrase challenges believers to consider how they can continue to worship and praise God even when they feel distant from Him or when circumstances seem to hinder their expression of faith.

of the LORD
The use of "the LORD" here is significant, as it refers to Yahweh, the covenant God of Israel. This is not just any song, but a song dedicated to the LORD, who is central to the identity and faith of the Israelites. The covenant relationship between God and His people is at the heart of this lament. The exiles' struggle to sing a song of the LORD in a foreign land underscores the tension between their current reality and their identity as God's chosen people. It serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining a relationship with God, even when external circumstances are challenging.

in a foreign land
The phrase "in a foreign land" highlights the physical and spiritual displacement experienced by the Israelites. The Hebrew word for "foreign" is "נֵכָר" (nekar), which implies strangeness or unfamiliarity. Being in a foreign land signifies not only geographical dislocation but also cultural and spiritual alienation. For the Israelites, Jerusalem was the center of worship and the presence of God, and being away from it created a sense of loss and longing. This phrase speaks to the universal experience of feeling out of place or distant from one's spiritual home. It encourages believers to seek God's presence and maintain their faith, even when they find themselves in unfamiliar or challenging environments.

If I forget you
The phrase "If I forget you" is a solemn vow, expressing the deep emotional and spiritual connection the psalmist has with Jerusalem. In Hebrew, the word for "forget" is "שָׁכַח" (shakach), which implies not just a lapse in memory but a willful neglect or abandonment. This highlights the importance of Jerusalem as not just a physical city but a symbol of God's presence and promises. The psalmist's commitment to remember Jerusalem reflects a broader call for believers to remain steadfast in their faith and devotion to God, even in times of exile or hardship.

O Jerusalem
Jerusalem, or "יְרוּשָׁלַיִם" (Yerushalayim) in Hebrew, is more than a geographical location; it is the spiritual heart of Israel. Historically, Jerusalem was the site of the Temple, the center of Jewish worship, and the place where God's presence dwelt among His people. For the exiled Israelites, Jerusalem represented hope, identity, and the fulfillment of God's covenant. In a broader Christian context, Jerusalem symbolizes the heavenly city, the ultimate destination for believers, and the place where God's eternal kingdom will be fully realized.

may my right hand forget its skill
The right hand is traditionally associated with strength, skill, and blessing. In Hebrew culture, the right hand was often used to symbolize power and capability. The phrase "forget its skill" suggests a loss of ability or purpose. By invoking this imagery, the psalmist is making a profound statement about the centrality of Jerusalem in their life. To forget Jerusalem would be akin to losing one's very essence or purpose. This reflects the idea that a life disconnected from God's promises and presence is incomplete and lacking in true fulfillment. For Christians, this serves as a reminder to prioritize their spiritual commitments and to keep their focus on God's eternal promises.

May my tongue cling to the roof of my mouth
This phrase is a vivid expression of self-imprecation, a solemn vow that underscores the seriousness of the psalmist's commitment. In Hebrew, the word for "tongue" is "לָשׁוֹן" (lashon), which often symbolizes speech and communication. The imagery of the tongue clinging to the roof of the mouth suggests a state of silence or inability to speak, which in ancient Near Eastern culture, would be a severe consequence for someone who fails to fulfill a vow. This reflects the deep emotional and spiritual connection the psalmist has with Jerusalem, emphasizing the importance of remembering and honoring the holy city.

if I do not remember you
The act of remembering in Hebrew, "זָכַר" (zakar), goes beyond mere mental recall; it involves a conscious, deliberate act of bringing something to mind with the intention of acting upon it. In the context of the psalm, "you" refers to Jerusalem, the spiritual and cultural heart of the Jewish people. The psalmist's vow to remember Jerusalem highlights the centrality of the city in Jewish identity and faith, especially during the Babylonian exile when the physical connection to the city was severed. This remembrance is not passive but active, calling for a continual acknowledgment of Jerusalem's significance.

if I do not exalt Jerusalem
To "exalt" in Hebrew is "עָלָה" (alah), which means to lift up or elevate. This phrase indicates the psalmist's intention to place Jerusalem above all else in terms of importance and reverence. Jerusalem, as the city of God, holds a unique place in the hearts of the Israelites. It is not just a physical location but a symbol of God's presence, promises, and the center of worship. The psalmist's commitment to exalt Jerusalem reflects a deep-seated devotion and prioritization of spiritual values over worldly concerns.

as my greatest joy
The Hebrew word for "joy" is "שִׂמְחָה" (simchah), which conveys a sense of gladness and delight. By declaring Jerusalem as his greatest joy, the psalmist is expressing an intense emotional attachment and a profound sense of fulfillment derived from the city. This joy is not merely personal but communal, as Jerusalem represents the collective hope and future of the Jewish people. In a conservative Christian perspective, this joy can be seen as a foreshadowing of the ultimate joy found in the heavenly Jerusalem, the eternal city of God, where believers will experience the fullness of God's presence and glory.

Remember, O LORD
The plea for God to "remember" is a call for divine justice and intervention. In Hebrew, the word "remember" (זָכַר, zakar) implies more than mere recollection; it is a request for God to act upon His covenant promises. This invocation is a profound expression of faith, trusting that God is both aware of and responsive to the injustices His people face. It reflects a deep-seated belief in God's sovereignty and His ultimate role as the righteous judge.

the sons of Edom
The "sons of Edom" refers to the descendants of Esau, Jacob's brother, and represents a longstanding enmity between the Israelites and the Edomites. Historically, Edom is located southeast of Judah, and its people are often depicted as antagonists in the Hebrew Scriptures. The Edomites' actions during Jerusalem's fall are seen as a betrayal of kinship, exacerbating the pain of the Israelites. This phrase highlights the theme of familial betrayal and the complexities of ancient Near Eastern politics.

on the day Jerusalem fell
This phrase situates the verse in a specific historical context: the destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonians in 586 B.C. The fall of Jerusalem was a catastrophic event for the Israelites, marking the loss of their spiritual and political center. The mention of this day evokes the deep sorrow and trauma experienced by the exiles, serving as a poignant reminder of their suffering and the need for divine justice.

'Destroy it,' they said
The Edomites' cry to "destroy" Jerusalem reveals their active participation in the city's downfall. The Hebrew verb used here (עָרוּ, aru) conveys a sense of complete annihilation. This phrase underscores the Edomites' hostility and the depth of their animosity towards the Israelites. It serves as a stark reminder of the destructive power of hatred and the moral imperative for justice.

'tear it down to its foundations!'
The call to "tear it down to its foundations" emphasizes the totality of the destruction desired by the Edomites. The imagery of dismantling a city to its very foundations signifies not just physical destruction but also the erasure of cultural and spiritual identity. This phrase captures the existential threat faced by the Israelites and their longing for restoration and vindication. It serves as a powerful metaphor for the resilience of faith amidst adversity, trusting that God will ultimately rebuild and restore what has been lost.

O Daughter of Babylon
This phrase personifies Babylon as a daughter, a common biblical metaphor that conveys both endearment and identity. In the Hebrew text, "Bat Babel" (בַּת־בָּבֶל) is used, which reflects the city's cultural and spiritual offspring. Babylon, historically, was a powerful empire known for its grandeur and idolatry, often seen as a symbol of opposition to God's people. The term "daughter" suggests a lineage of sin and rebellion against God, echoing the prophetic literature where cities are often depicted as women, either faithful or unfaithful.

doomed to destruction
The Hebrew word here is "shadud" (שָׁדוּד), meaning "devastated" or "destroyed." This phrase is a prophetic declaration of Babylon's inevitable downfall. Historically, Babylon fell to the Medes and Persians in 539 BC, fulfilling this prophecy. Theologically, it underscores the biblical principle that nations and powers that oppose God's will and oppress His people are ultimately subject to His judgment. This serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and justice, assuring believers that evil will not prevail indefinitely.

blessed is he
The word "blessed" in Hebrew is "ashrei" (אַשְׁרֵי), which conveys a state of happiness or divine favor. In this context, it suggests that those who act as instruments of God's justice are considered fortunate or favored. This reflects the biblical theme that aligning with God's purposes brings true blessing, even when it involves difficult or challenging actions. It challenges believers to trust in God's ultimate plan and justice, even when it is not immediately apparent.

who repays you
The concept of repayment here is rooted in the Hebrew word "shalam" (שָׁלַם), meaning "to make whole" or "to recompense." This reflects the biblical principle of divine retribution, where God ensures that justice is served. In the context of Psalm 137, it speaks to the longing for justice by those who have suffered under Babylonian oppression. It is a call for divine intervention to restore balance and righteousness, reminding believers that God is a God of justice who will right the wrongs of this world.

as you have done to us
This phrase emphasizes the principle of measure-for-measure justice, a recurring theme in Scripture. The Hebrew "gemul" (גְּמוּל) implies a recompense or reward based on one's actions. Historically, the Babylonians had destroyed Jerusalem and exiled its people, and this verse reflects a desire for equivalent justice. It serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of sin and the importance of living righteously. For believers, it underscores the hope that God will ultimately vindicate His people and restore justice, encouraging them to remain faithful amidst trials.

Blessed is he
The phrase "Blessed is he" in this context is a declaration of divine favor or approval. The Hebrew word for "blessed" is "אַשְׁרֵי" (ashrei), which conveys a sense of happiness or contentment that comes from being in alignment with God's will. In the broader biblical narrative, being "blessed" often implies receiving God's favor and protection. This phrase sets the tone for the verse, indicating that the actions described are seen as just or righteous within the context of divine justice.

who seizes
The word "seizes" comes from the Hebrew root "תָּפַשׂ" (taphas), which means to grasp or take hold of. This term is often used in the context of capturing or taking control. Historically, this reflects the ancient Near Eastern context where warfare and conquest were common, and the act of seizing was part of the reality of conflict. In the psalm, it reflects the intense emotions and desire for justice or retribution felt by the Israelites during their Babylonian exile.

your infants
The mention of "your infants" is a direct reference to the children of the Babylonians. In the ancient world, the destruction of one's offspring was seen as the ultimate act of vengeance, as it ensured the end of a lineage. This phrase is shocking and difficult, reflecting the deep pain and desire for justice that the Israelites felt. It is important to understand this within the historical context of the Babylonian conquest, where such acts were not uncommon in warfare.

and dashes them against the rocks
The imagery of "dashes them against the rocks" is graphic and violent, reflecting the brutal realities of ancient warfare. The Hebrew word "נָפַץ" (napatz) means to shatter or break into pieces. This phrase captures the raw emotion and desire for retribution against the Babylonians, who had destroyed Jerusalem and taken the Israelites into exile. It is a cry for justice, albeit expressed in the harsh terms of the time.