Psalm 126-128

New International Version

Psalm 126

A song of ascents.

¹When the Lord restored^(A) the fortunes of^[a] Zion,
    we were like those who dreamed.^[b]
²Our mouths were filled with laughter,^(B)
    our tongues with songs of joy.^(C)
Then it was said among the nations,
    “The Lord has done great things^(D) for them.”
³The Lord has done great things^(E) for us,
    and we are filled with joy.^(F)

⁴Restore our fortunes,^[c]^(G) Lord,
    like streams in the Negev.^(H)
⁵Those who sow with tears^(I)
    will reap^(J) with songs of joy.^(K)
⁶Those who go out weeping,^(L)
    carrying seed to sow,
will return with songs of joy,
    carrying sheaves with them.

Psalm 127

A song of ascents. Of Solomon.

¹Unless the Lord builds^(M) the house,
    the builders labor in vain.
Unless the Lord watches^(N) over the city,
    the guards stand watch in vain.
²In vain you rise early
    and stay up late,
toiling for food^(O) to eat—
    for he grants sleep^(P) to^[d] those he loves.^(Q)

³Children are a heritage from the Lord,
    offspring a reward^(R) from him.
⁴Like arrows^(S) in the hands of a warrior
    are children born in one’s youth.
⁵Blessed is the man
    whose quiver is full of them.^(T)
They will not be put to shame
    when they contend with their opponents^(U) in court.^(V)

Psalm 128

A song of ascents.

¹Blessed are all who fear the Lord,^(W)
    who walk in obedience to him.^(X)
²You will eat the fruit of your labor;^(Y)
    blessings and prosperity^(Z) will be yours.
³Your wife will be like a fruitful vine^(AA)
    within your house;
your children^(AB) will be like olive shoots^(AC)
    around your table.
⁴Yes, this will be the blessing^(AD)
    for the man who fears the Lord.^(AE)

⁵May the Lord bless you from Zion;^(AF)
    may you see the prosperity of Jerusalem^(AG)
    all the days of your life.
⁶May you live to see your children’s children—^(AH)
    peace be on Israel.^(AI)