Then Our Mouth Was Filled With Laughter

The joy of the people is expressed in this Psalm, in particular relating to the event that God brought the captive Israelites back to their homeland. This most likely refers to the Babylonian captivity, but it is also reminiscent of the deliverance from Egypt; as well as God's deliverance of us from our former selves into His family.

The second part may be open to misinterpretation about those who are weeping and sow in tears will be rejoicing in the future. Some may view this as an encouragement to weep or be sorrowful so that we will be rewarded with joy. But an understanding of God and His son Jesus will clarify this. There are many descriptions in Scriptures showing people dancing and singing with joy and praising God, eg the Israelites at their victories and deliverance and David's worship of God. So the Scripture here is more likely saying that for those who happen to be in tears and weeping, not that it is encouraged, they can look forward to rejoicing in the future as God delivers them.


Psalm 126
A Joyful Return to Zion
A Song of Ascents.

1 When the Lord brought back the captivity of Zion,
We were like those who dream.
2 Then our mouth was filled with laughter,
And our tongue with singing.
Then they said among the nations,
“The Lord has done great things for them.”
3 The Lord has done great things for us,
And we are glad.
4 Bring back our captivity, O Lord,
As the streams in the South.
5 Those who sow in tears
Shall reap in joy.
6 He who continually goes forth weeping,
Bearing seed for sowing,
Shall doubtless come again with rejoicing,
Bringing his sheaves with him.