[1] By the rivers of Babylon, we sat down and cried as we remembered Zion. [2] We hung our lyres on willow trees. [3] It was there that those who had captured us demanded that we sing. Those who guarded us wanted us to entertain them. They said, "Sing a song from Zion for us!" [4] How could we sing the LORD's song in a foreign land? [5] If I forget you, Jerusalem, let my right hand forget how to play the lyre. [6] Let my tongue stick to the roof of my mouth if I don't remember you, if I don't consider Jerusalem my highest joy. [7] O LORD, remember the people of Edom. Remember what they did the day Jerusalem was captured. They said, "Tear it down! Tear it down to its foundation." [8] You destructive people of Babylon, blessed is the one who pays you back with the same treatment you gave us. [9] Blessed is the one who grabs your little children and smashes them against a rock.
