doomed to destruction
The Hebrew word here is "shadud" (שָׁדוּד), meaning "devastated" or "destroyed." This phrase is a prophetic declaration of Babylon's inevitable downfall. Historically, Babylon fell to the Medes and Persians in 539 BC, fulfilling this prophecy. Theologically, it underscores the biblical principle that nations and powers that oppose God's will and oppress His people are ultimately subject to His judgment. This serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and justice, assuring believers that evil will not prevail indefinitely.

blessed is he
The word "blessed" in Hebrew is "ashrei" (אַשְׁרֵי), which conveys a state of happiness or divine favor. In this context, it suggests that those who act as instruments of God's justice are considered fortunate or favored. This reflects the biblical theme that aligning with God's purposes brings true blessing, even when it involves difficult or challenging actions. It challenges believers to trust in God's ultimate plan and justice, even when it is not immediately apparent.

who repays you
The concept of repayment here is rooted in the Hebrew word "shalam" (שָׁלַם), meaning "to make whole" or "to recompense." This reflects the biblical principle of divine retribution, where God ensures that justice is served. In the context of Psalm 137, it speaks to the longing for justice by those who have suffered under Babylonian oppression. It is a call for divine intervention to restore balance and righteousness, reminding believers that God is a God of justice who will right the wrongs of this world.

as you have done to us
This phrase emphasizes the principle of measure-for-measure justice, a recurring theme in Scripture. The Hebrew "gemul" (גְּמוּל) implies a recompense or reward based on one's actions. Historically, the Babylonians had destroyed Jerusalem and exiled its people, and this verse reflects a desire for equivalent justice. It serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of sin and the importance of living righteously. For believers, it underscores the hope that God will ultimately vindicate His people and restore justice, encouraging them to remain faithful amidst trials.

Who art to be destroyed.--Considerable doubt attaches to the meaning of the Hebrew word here. Our version is that of Theodotion. Aquila and Jerome have "wasted" (comp. Prayer Book version); Symmachus, "robber;" the LXX. and Vulg., "wretched."

As pointed, the word is a passive participle, and must be rendered as by Aquila, "wasted" or "destroyed," but with the recollection that a Hebrew would thus speak proleptically of a doom foreseen though not accomplished. Delitzsch quotes an Arab saying: "Pursue the caught one "--i.e., sure to be caught.

The "luxury of revenge" is well expressed in this beatitude, pronounced on him who can carry out to all its bitter end the lex talionis. Commentators have in turn tried to disguise and justify the expression of passion. Happily the Bible allows us to see men as they were without taking their rules of feeling and conduct as ours. "The psalm is beautiful as a poem--the Christian must seek his inspiration elsewhere."