1 By the rivers of Babylon, there we sat down.

Yes, we wept, when we remembered Zion.

2 On the willows in that land,

we hung up our harps.

3 For there, those who led us captive asked us for songs.

Those who tormented us demanded songs of joy:

“Sing us one of the songs of Zion!”

4 How can we sing Jehovah’s song in a foreign land?

5 If I forget you, Jerusalem,

let my right hand forget its skill.

6 Let my tongue stick to the roof of my mouth if I don’t remember you;

if I don’t prefer Jerusalem above my chief joy.

7 Remember, Jehovah, against the children of Edom,

the day of Jerusalem;

who said, “Raze it!

Raze it even to its foundation!”

8 Daughter of Babylon, doomed to destruction,

he will be happy who rewards you,

as you have served us.

9 Happy shall he be,

who takes and dashes your little ones against the rock.