Psalms · Chapter 137 · 9 verses
Psalms 137
About this chapter
Psalms 137 — Babylonian Exile
Unknown — Jewish exile in Babylon. Set in By the rivers of Babylon. Jewish exiles sit weeping by Babylon's rivers, their harps hanging silent on the willow trees. Their captors mockingly demand entertainment: 'Sing us one of your happy Jerusalem songs!' The exiles refuse—how can they sing the Lord's song in this foreign land? Their grief turns to burning rage as they remember Jerusalem's destruction.
“Psalms 137:4” — 137:4
Raw grief mixed with fierce anger over the loss of home and sacred places.
Read when: Read this when you're far from home or facing loss and need permission to grieve deeply before you can worship again.
1By the rivers of Babylon, there we sat down. Yes, we wept, when we remembered Zion. 2On the willows in its midst, 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!" 4How can we sing Yahweh's song in a foreign land? 5If I forget you, Jerusalem, 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 above my chief joy. 7Remember, Yahweh, against the children of Edom, the day of Jerusalem; who said, "Raze it! Raze it even to its foundation!" 8Daughter of Babylon, 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. By David.