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.