1 “A song of the degrees.” When the Lord bringeth back again the captivity of Zion, then shall we be like dreamers. 2 Then shall our mouth be filled with laughter, and our tongue with singing: then shall they say among the nations, Great things hath the Lord done for these. 3 Great things would the Lord have done for us, [whereat] we should be joyful. 4 Bring back again, O Lord, our captivity, like rivulets in arid land. 5 Those that sow in tears shall reap with joyful song. 6 He goeth forth indeed and weepeth, that beareth the seed for sowing; but he will surely come with joyful song when he beareth [home] his sheaves.