Hebrew Names Version HNV
The Message Bible MSG
1 <<A Ma`alot Song.>> When the LORD brought back those who returned to Tziyon, We were like those who dream.
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It seemed like a dream, too good to be true, when God returned Zion's exiles.
2 Then our mouth was filled with laughter, And our tongue with singing. Then said they among the nations, "The LORD has done great things for them."
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We laughed, we sang, we couldn't believe our good fortune. We were the talk of the nations - "God was wonderful to them!"
3 The LORD has done great things for us, And we are glad.
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God was wonderful to us; we are one happy people.
4 Restore our fortunes again, LORD, Like the streams in the Negev.
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And now, God, do it again - bring rains to our drought-stricken lives
5 Those who sow in tears will reap in joy.
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So those who planted their crops in despair will shout hurrahs at the harvest,
6 He who goes out weeping, carrying seed for sowing, Will assuredly come again with joy, carrying his sheaves.
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So those who went off with heavy hearts will come home laughing, with armloads of blessing.
The Hebrew Names Version is in the public domain.
Published by permission. Originally published by NavPress in English as THE MESSAGE: The Bible in Contemporary Language copyright 2002 by Eugene Peterson. All rights reserved.