[1] I was so happy when my fellow pilgrims said, "Let's go to the house of the Eternal!" [2] We have made the journey, and now we are standing within your gates, O Jerusalem. [3] Jerusalem! What a magnificent city! Buildings so close together, so compact. [4] God's people belong here. Every tribe of the Eternal makes its way to Jerusalem- Just as God decreed for Israel to come together and give thanks to the Eternal. [5] In Jerusalem, justice is the order of the day because there sit the judges and kings, the descendants of David. [6] Ask heaven to grant peace to Jerusalem: "May those who love you prosper. [7] O Jerusalem, may His peace fill this entire city! May this citadel be quiet and at ease!" [8] It's because of people-my family, friends, and acquaintances- that I say, "May peace permeate you." [9] And because the house of Eternal One, our God, is here, know this: I will always seek your good!
