A song of ascents.
This phrase indicates that Psalm 126 is part of the Songs of Ascents, a collection of Psalms (120-134) traditionally sung by Hebrew pilgrims as they ascended to Jerusalem for the three major feasts: Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles. The term "ascents" reflects both the physical journey up to Jerusalem, which is situated on a hill, and the spiritual elevation experienced during worship. The ascent can also symbolize the spiritual journey of believers toward God.

When the LORD restored the captives of Zion,
This phrase refers to the return of the Jewish exiles from Babylonian captivity, a pivotal event in Israel's history. The restoration was seen as a divine act, fulfilling prophecies such as those in Jeremiah 29:10-14 and Isaiah 44:28-45:1. Zion, often synonymous with Jerusalem, represents the spiritual and political heart of Israel. The restoration signifies God's faithfulness to His covenant promises and His power to redeem His people. It also prefigures the ultimate restoration through Christ, who liberates humanity from the captivity of sin.

we were like dreamers.
The return from exile was so miraculous and joyous that it felt like a dream to the Israelites. This expression captures the overwhelming sense of disbelief and joy at witnessing God's deliverance. It echoes the theme of divine intervention found in other scriptures, such as Job 42:10, where God restores fortunes beyond expectation. The dream-like state can also be seen as a type of the future hope and joy believers will experience in the fulfillment of God's promises through Jesus Christ, as described in Revelation 21:4.

Then our mouths were filled with laughter
This phrase reflects a profound sense of joy and relief, likely following a significant deliverance or return from captivity, such as the Babylonian exile. Laughter here symbolizes a deep, heartfelt response to God's intervention. In biblical times, laughter was often associated with moments of divine blessing or miraculous events, as seen in Sarah's laughter upon learning of Isaac's promised birth (Genesis 18:12-15). This joy is a testament to God's faithfulness and the fulfillment of His promises.

our tongues with shouts of joy
The expression of joy through shouting indicates a communal celebration, often seen in Israel's history during festivals or victories. This public declaration of joy serves as a witness to others of God's mighty works. In the context of worship, such expressions were common in the Psalms, where music and vocal praise were integral to celebrating God's deeds (Psalm 98:4-6). The joy expressed here is not just personal but shared among the community, highlighting the collective experience of God's salvation.

Then it was said among the nations
This phrase suggests that the surrounding nations recognized the extraordinary nature of what God had done for His people. It reflects the idea that God's actions on behalf of Israel were so significant that they became known beyond their borders. This acknowledgment by other nations fulfills the Abrahamic promise that through Israel, all nations would be blessed (Genesis 12:3). It also serves as a testimony to God's power and sovereignty, drawing attention to His role in the affairs of the world.

“The LORD has done great things for them.”
The acknowledgment of the LORD's deeds by other nations underscores the magnitude of His intervention. This recognition serves as a form of evangelism, as the nations witness the reality of Israel's God. The phrase echoes the sentiment found in other scriptures where God's mighty acts are celebrated, such as the Exodus (Exodus 15:11) and the return from exile (Isaiah 52:10). It points to the ultimate fulfillment in Christ, whose life, death, and resurrection are the greatest acts of God for humanity, offering salvation to all nations.

The LORD has done great things for us;
This phrase acknowledges the divine intervention and blessings that the Israelites experienced, likely referring to their return from Babylonian exile. Historically, the Babylonian captivity was a period of great suffering, and their release was seen as a miraculous act of God. Theologically, this reflects the covenant relationship between God and His people, where God acts on behalf of Israel. This phrase can be connected to other instances in the Bible where God performs mighty acts, such as the Exodus (Exodus 14) and the conquest of Canaan (Joshua 6). It also foreshadows the ultimate deliverance through Jesus Christ, who brings spiritual liberation.

we are filled with joy.
The joy expressed here is a response to the tangible experience of God's faithfulness and deliverance. In the cultural context of ancient Israel, joy was often associated with communal celebrations and worship, as seen in the feasts and festivals prescribed in the Law (Leviticus 23). This joy is not merely emotional but is deeply rooted in the recognition of God's sovereignty and goodness. The joy of the Israelites can be paralleled with the joy of salvation found in the New Testament, such as in Philippians 4:4, where believers are encouraged to rejoice in the Lord always. This joy is a foretaste of the eternal joy promised in the Kingdom of God.

Restore our captives, O LORD
This phrase is a plea for divine intervention and restoration. The context suggests a longing for the return of those who have been exiled or taken captive. Historically, this reflects the period after the Babylonian exile when the Israelites yearned for the return of their people to Jerusalem. Theologically, it signifies a deeper spiritual restoration, a theme prevalent throughout the Bible, where God is seen as the restorer of His people. This plea can be connected to the broader biblical narrative of redemption and deliverance, as seen in passages like Isaiah 49:8-9, where God promises to restore and gather His people.

like streams in the Negev
The Negev is a desert region in southern Israel, known for its arid conditions. However, during the rainy season, sudden and temporary streams, known as wadis, can form, bringing life and renewal to the barren landscape. This imagery is powerful, symbolizing sudden and abundant restoration. The comparison to streams in the Negev suggests a miraculous and transformative change, akin to the unexpected and life-giving waters in a desert. This metaphor can be linked to the spiritual renewal and revival that God brings, as seen in passages like Isaiah 35:6-7, where the desert is transformed into a place of springs and streams. The imagery also points to the work of Christ, who offers living water, as mentioned in John 4:14, symbolizing eternal life and spiritual refreshment.

Those who sow in tears
This phrase reflects the agrarian culture of ancient Israel, where sowing and reaping were common experiences. Sowing in tears suggests a time of hardship or distress, possibly due to famine, exile, or personal trials. The imagery of sowing is often used in Scripture to represent the act of investing or laboring in faith, even when circumstances are difficult. This can be connected to the Israelites' return from Babylonian exile, a period marked by sorrow and uncertainty. The tears symbolize the pain and suffering endured during such times, yet they also imply hope and trust in God's promises. The act of sowing, despite tears, indicates faith in a future harvest, a theme echoed in Galatians 6:9, which encourages perseverance in doing good.

will reap with shouts of joy
Reaping with joy signifies the fulfillment of God's promises and the reward for faithful endurance. The transformation from tears to joy highlights the redemptive power of God, who turns mourning into dancing (Psalm 30:11). This phrase assures believers that their labor and suffering are not in vain, as God will ultimately bring about a joyful harvest. The joy of reaping is not just personal but communal, reflecting the collective celebration of God's people when His promises are realized. This concept is seen in the return of the exiles to Jerusalem, where their restoration was marked by joy and thanksgiving. The imagery also points to the eschatological hope found in Revelation 21:4, where God wipes away every tear, and eternal joy is established. The phrase can be seen as a type of Christ, who endured the cross for the joy set before Him (Hebrews 12:2), illustrating the ultimate sowing in tears and reaping in joy.

He who goes out weeping
This phrase captures the image of a sower who is deeply sorrowful, possibly due to the hardships and uncertainties of life. In the agrarian society of ancient Israel, sowing was a labor-intensive task, often done in difficult conditions. The weeping may symbolize the struggles and sacrifices made in faith, trusting that God will provide a harvest. This reflects the broader biblical theme of suffering preceding joy, as seen in passages like John 16:20, where Jesus speaks of sorrow turning into joy.

bearing a trail of seed
The act of sowing seed is a metaphor for investing in faith and obedience to God, despite present difficulties. The "trail of seed" suggests a continuous effort and commitment, even when immediate results are not visible. This imagery is reminiscent of the parable of the sower in Matthew 13, where the seed represents the word of God and the different types of soil represent the hearts of people. The sower's faithfulness in spreading the seed is crucial, regardless of the initial reception.

will surely return with shouts of joy
This promise of joy upon return emphasizes the certainty of God's faithfulness in rewarding those who diligently sow in faith. The transformation from weeping to joy is a common biblical motif, illustrating God's ability to bring about redemption and restoration. This is echoed in Isaiah 35:10, where the redeemed return with everlasting joy. The assurance of joy reflects the hope and trust in God's providence and timing.

carrying sheaves of grain
The sheaves of grain symbolize the abundant harvest that results from faithful sowing. This harvest is not only a physical provision but also a spiritual blessing, representing the fruitfulness of God's work in and through His people. The imagery of carrying sheaves is reminiscent of the Feast of Weeks (Pentecost), a time of celebrating the harvest and God's provision. It also points to the ultimate harvest of souls, as seen in Revelation 14:15, where the earth's harvest is reaped. This phrase underscores the principle that diligent, faithful labor in God's service will ultimately lead to a bountiful and joyous reward.