1. By the rivers of Babylon, we sat down and criedas we remembered Zion.
2. We hung our lyres on willow trees.
3. It was there that those who had captured us demanded that we sing.Those who guarded us wanted us to entertain them.⌊They said,⌋ “Sing a song from Zion for us!”
4. How could we sing the Lord’s song in a foreign land?
5. If I forget you, Jerusalem,let my right hand forget ⌊how to play the lyre⌋.
6. Let my tongue stick to the roof of my mouthif I don’t remember you,if I don’t consider Jerusalem my highest joy.
7. O Lord, remember the people of Edom.Remember what they did the day Jerusalem ⌊was captured⌋.They said, “Tear it down! Tear it down to its foundation.”
8. You destructive people of Babylon,blessed is the one who pays you backwith the same treatment you gave us.
9. Blessed is the one who grabs your little childrenand smashes them against a rock.