1 By the rivers of Babylon, there we sat down.Yes, we wept, when we remembered Zion.
2 On the willows in that land,we hung up our harps.
3 For 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!”
4 How can we sing the Lord’s song in a foreign land?
5 If I forget you, Jerusalem,let my right hand forget its skill.
6 Let 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.
7 Remember, Lord, against the children of Edom,the day of Jerusalem;who said, “Raze it!Raze it even to its foundation!”
8 Daughter of Babylon, doomed to destruction,he will be happy who rewards you,as you have served us.
9 Happy shall he be,who takes and dashes your little ones against the rock.