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Reading forward

Psalm 137

and its New Testament afterlife

4 places · 4 books

The chapter as it stands, read forward into the canon it would help write. Beside each verse, the New Testament places that quote, allude to, or echo it — follow any to read it in its own argument. The verse number opens its full reception dossier.

1

By the rivers of Babylon, there we sat down. Yes, we wept, when we remembered Zion.

2

On the willows in its midst, we hung up our harps.

3

For there, those who led us captive asked us for songs. Those who tormented us demanded songs of joy: “Sing us one of the songs of Zion!”

4

How can we sing Yahweh’s song in a foreign land?

5

If I forget you, Jerusalem, let my right hand forget its skill.

6

Let my tongue stick to the roof of my mouth if I don’t remember you; if I don’t prefer Jerusalem above my chief joy.

7

Remember, Yahweh, against the children of Edom, the day of Jerusalem; who said, “Raze it! Raze it even to its foundation!”

8

Daughter of Babylon, doomed to destruction, he will be happy who rewards you, as you have served us.

9

Happy shall he be, who takes and dashes your little ones against the rock.