Verse 1

"A Song of degrees." When the LORD turned again the captivity of Zion, we were like them that a dream.

(a) Their deliverance was incredible and therefore took away all excuse for ingratitude.

Verse 2

Then was our mouth b filled with laughter, and our tongue with singing: then said they among the c heathen, The LORD hath done great things for them.

(b) He shows how the godly should rejoice when God gathers his Church or delivers it.

(c) If the infidels confess God's wonderful work, the faithful can never show themselves sufficiently thankful.

Verse 4

Turn again our captivity, O LORD, as the d streams in the south.

(d) It is no more impossible for God to deliver his people than to cause the rivers to run in the wilderness and barren places.

Verse 6

He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing e precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves [with him].

(e) That is, seed which was scarce and dear: meaning, that they who trusted in God's promise to return had their desire.