1 I t was like a dream when the Lord brought back to Zion those who had been held in another land.

When Yahweh brought back those who returned to Zion, we were like those who dream.

2 T hen we laughed with our mouths, and we sang with our tongues. Then it was said among the nations, “The Lord has done great things for them.”

Then our mouth was filled with laughter, and our tongue with singing. Then they said among the nations, “Yahweh has done great things for them.”

3 T he Lord has done great things for us and we are glad.

Yahweh has done great things for us, and we are glad.

4 B ring back our people, O Lord, like the rivers in the South.

Restore our fortunes again, Yahweh, like the streams in the Negev.

5 T hose who plant with tears will gather fruit with songs of joy.

Those who sow in tears will reap in joy.

6 H e who goes out crying as he carries his bag of seed will return with songs of joy as he brings much grain with him.

He who goes out weeping, carrying seed for sowing, will certainly come again with joy, carrying his sheaves.