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Psalms 137

World English Bible

WEB

1By the rivers of Babylon, there we sat down. Yes, we wept, when we remembered Zion. 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!” 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 in 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 repays you, as you have done to us. 9Happy shall he be, who takes and dashes your little ones against the rock.

World English Bible, 2020 stable text edition. Public domain; “World English Bible” is a trademark of eBible.org. eBible.org

Overview

Psalms 137 is a poignant expression of sorrow and longing, reflecting the deep anguish of the Israelites during their Babylonian exile. The chapter opens with the captives sitting by the rivers of Babylon, weeping as they remember #Zion, the beloved city of Jerusalem. This imagery of sitting by the rivers evokes a sense of despair and loss, as the exiles hang their harps on the willows, unable to sing the songs of the Lord in a foreign land (Psalm 137:1-2). Their captors demand songs of joy, mocking their faith and heritage, which intensifies their grief and longing for their homeland. This moment captures the emotional turmoil of a people who feel disconnected from their identity and relationship with God.

The psalmist then expresses a profound commitment to never forget #Zion, declaring that if they forget Jerusalem, may their right hand forget its skill (Psalm 137:5). This vow emphasizes the importance of Jerusalem not just as a physical location but as a symbol of God’s presence and covenant with His people. The chapter concludes with a stark and painful imprecation against the Edomites and Babylon, expressing a desire for justice and retribution for the suffering endured by the Israelites (Psalm 137:7-9). This raw emotion and yearning for restoration resonate deeply, reminding believers of the importance of hope and remembrance in times of distress, as well as the ultimate promise of God’s faithfulness to His people.

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Referenced by

  1. Ezekiel 35:5v7Ezekiel 35:5 accuses Edom of perpetual enmity against Israel. Psalm 137:7 recalls Edom's role in the destruction of Jerusalem, asking God to remember Edom's actions.

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