Psalms [Praises] 137

Context: King Nebuchadnezzar carries Israel [God prevails] into exile. (2 King 24-25)

1By the rivers of Babylon [Confusion], there we sat down.

Yes, we wept, when we remembered Zion [Mountain ridge, Marking].

2On the willows in that land,

we hung up our harps.

3For there, those who led us captive asked us for songs.

Those who tormented us demanded songs of joy:

“Sing us one of the songs of Zion [Mountain ridge, Marking]!”

4How can we sing Adonai’s song in a foreign land?

5If I forget you, Jerusalem [City of peace],

let my right hand forget its skill.

6Let my tongue stick to the roof of my mouth if I don’t remember you;

if I don’t prefer Jerusalem [City of peace] above my chief joy.

7Remember, Adonai, against the children of Edom [Red],

the day of Jerusalem [City of peace];

who said, “Raze it!

Raze it even to its foundation!”

8Daughter of Babylon [Confusion], doomed to destruction,

he will be happy who rewards you,

as you have served us.

9Happy shall he be,

who takes and dashes your little ones against the rock.