Psalms 126

These short and memorable songs were sung by pilgrims as they traveled to Jerusalem for the national festivals held three times each year (Deuteronomy 16:16). The title of these psalms includes a Hebrew word that can mean “steps” or “stairs.” Some scholars understand it to mean “going up to Jerusalem.” These psalms, often called the Songs of Ascents, lead the listener on a journey to Jerusalem to praise God for his goodness to Israel through history.

The Lord brought about Israel’s restoration from exile, just as he had brought Israel out of Egypt (Psalm 114:1). The restoration transformed the weeping of the Lord’s people into laughter and showed the Lord’s character to the nations (Psalm 9:11; 64:9; Isaiah 12:4).

This psalm celebrates Israel's return from exile (Psalm 126:1–3). The psalmist then prays that God will fully restore the people (Psalm 126:4–6).

• The prophets had spoken of the restoration as a time when the wilderness would change into the garden of Eden (Isaiah 51:3; Ezekiel 47). However, the reality was far from paradise. Here, the restoration community prays for complete redemption (see Haggai 2:19).

• like streams in the Negev: Seasonal rains filled the dry riverbeds (wadis), making the land green again. The prayer seeks a similar change in Israel’s fortunes, fulfilling the imagery of the "Second Exodus" in Isaiah (see "The Promise of a Second Exodus" Theme Note).

• carrying sheaves of grain: This harvest represents God's complete restoration.