Study Desk

A song of ascents.

When the Lord restored the fortunes of Zion,^[a] we were like those who dream.^(a)

Our mouths were filled with laughter then,^(b) and our tongues with shouts of joy.^(c) Then they said among the nations, "The Lord has done great things for them."^(d)

The Lord had done great things for us; we were joyful.^(e)

Restore our fortunes,^[b] Lord , like watercourses in the Negev.^(f)

Those who sow in tears will reap with shouts of joy.^(g)

Though one goes along weeping, carrying the bag of seed, he will surely come back with shouts of joy, carrying his sheaves.^(h)

A Solomonic song of ascents.

Unless the Lord builds a house, its builders labor over it in vain;^(a) unless the Lord watches over a city, the watchman stays alert in vain.^(b)

In vain you get up early and stay up late, working hard to have enough food— yes, He gives sleep to the one He loves.^[a](c)

Sons are indeed a heritage from the Lord , children, a reward.^(d)

Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the sons born in one's youth.^(e)

Happy is the man who has filled his quiver with them.^(f) Such men will never be put to shame when they speak with their enemies at the city gate.^(g)

A song of ascents.

How happy is everyone who fears the Lord , who walks in His ways!^(a)

You will surely eat what your hands have worked for.^(b) You will be happy, and it will go well for you.^(c)

Your wife will be like a fruitful vine within your house, your sons, like young olive trees around your table.^(d)

In this very way the man who fears the Lord will be blessed.^(e)

May the Lord bless you from Zion, so that you will see the prosperity of Jerusalem all the days of your life^(f)

and will see your children's children! Peace be with Israel.^(g)