By the rivers of Babylon
(Ezekiel 1:1-3)
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 in 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 repays you, as you have done to us.
9
Happy shall he be, who takes and dashes your little ones against the rock.