King James Version KJV
English Standard Version ESV
1 When the LORD turned again the captivity of Zion, we were like them that dream.
1
When the LORD restored the fortunes of Zion, we were like those who dream.
2 Then was our mouth filled with laughter, and our tongue with singing: then said they among the heathen, The LORD hath done great things for them.
2
Then our mouth was filled with laughter, and our tongue with shouts of joy; then they said among the nations, "The LORD has done great things for them."
3 The LORD hath done great things for us; whereof we are glad.
3
The LORD has done great things for us; we are glad.
4 Turn again our captivity, O LORD, as the streams in the south.
4
Restore our fortunes, O LORD, like streams in the Negeb!
5 They that sow in tears shall reap in joy.
5
Those who sow in tears shall reap with shouts of joy!
6 He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.
6
He who goes out weeping, bearing the seed for sowing, shall come home with shouts of joy, bringing his sheaves with him.
The King James Version is in the public domain.
The English Standard Version is published with the permission of Good News Publishers.