Psalms 126; Psalms 127; Psalms 128

1 (125-1) <A gradual canticle.> When the Lord brought back the captivity of Sion, we became like men comforted.

2 (125-2) Then was our mouth filled with gladness; and our tongue with joy. Then shall they say among the Gentiles: The Lord hath done great things for them.

3 (125-3) The Lord hath done great things for us: we are become joyful.

4 (125-4) Turn again our captivity, O Lord, as a stream in the south.

5 (125-5) They that sow in tears shall reap in joy.

6 (125-6) Going they went and wept, casting their seeds. (125-7) But coming they shall come with joyfulness, carrying their sheaves.

1 (126-1) <A gradual canticle of Solomon.> Unless the Lord build the house, they labour in vain that build it. Unless the Lord keep the city, he watcheth in vain that keepeth it.

2 (126-2) It is vain for you to rise before light, rise ye after you have sitten, you that eat the bread of sorrow. When he shall give sleep to his beloved,

3 (126-3) Behold the inheritance of the Lord are children: the reward, the fruit of the womb.

4 (126-4) As arrows in the hand of the mighty, so the children of them that have been shaken.

5 (126-5) Blessed is the man that hath filled the desire with them; he shall not be confounded when he shall speak to his enemies in the gate.

1 (127-1) <A gradual canticle.> Blessed are all they that fear the Lord: that walk in his ways.

2 (127-2) For thou shalt eat the labours of thy hands: blessed art thou, and it shall be well with thee.

3 (127-3) Thy wife as a fruitful vine, on the sides of thy house. Thy children as olive plants, round about thy table.

4 (127-4) Behold, thus shall the man be blessed that feareth the Lord.

5 (127-5) May the Lord bless thee out of Sion: and mayst thou see the good things of Jerusalem all the days of thy life.

6 (127-6) And mayst thou see thy children’s children, peace upon Israel.