Psalm 126

A song of ascents.

1 When the Lord restoredi the fortunes ofa Zion,

we were like those who dreamed.b

2 Our mouths were filled with laughter,j

our tongues with songs of joy.k

Then it was said among the nations,

“The Lord has done great thingsl for them.”

3 The Lord has done great thingsm for us,

and we are filled with joy.n

4 Restore our fortunes,c o Lord,

like streams in the Negev.p

5 Those who sow with tearsq

will reapr with songs of joy.s

6 Those who go out weeping,t

carrying seed to sow,

will return with songs of joy,

carrying sheaves with them.

Psalm 127

A song of ascents. Of Solomon.

1 Unless the Lord buildsu the house,

the builders labor in vain.

Unless the Lord watchesv over the city,

the guards stand watch in vain.

2 In vain you rise early

and stay up late,

toiling for foodw to eat—

for he grants sleepx toa those he loves.y

3 Children are a heritage from the Lord,

offspring a rewardz from him.

4 Like arrowsa in the hands of a warrior

are children born in one’s youth.

5 Blessed is the man

whose quiver is full of them.b

They will not be put to shame

when they contend with their opponentsc in court.d

Psalm 128

A song of ascents.

1 Blessed are all who fear the Lord,e

who walk in obedience to him.f

2 You will eat the fruit of your labor;g

blessings and prosperityh will be yours.

3 Your wife will be like a fruitful vinei

within your house;

your childrenj will be like olive shootsk

around your table.

4 Yes, this will be the blessingl

for the man who fears the Lord.m

5 May the Lord bless you from Zion;n

may you see the prosperity of Jerusalemo

all the days of your life.

6 May you live to see your children’s children—p

peace be on Israel.q