Psalms  ◦   Chapter 129

1Since our very beginning as a people, we have been oppressed —
let Israel say —

2since our very beginning as a people, we have been oppressed,
but they have not defeated us.

3They have cut deep wounds in our backs,
like a field plowed deep with furrows,

4but our righteous Lord
has freed us from slavery.

5All who hate Zion
will be ashamed and turned away.

6They will be like grass on a roof — cut off from the source of life —
which withers and dies;

7it produces no grain
and is unfit for harvest.

8Those who pass by will be unable to say,
"The blessing of the Lord is upon you;
we pronounce the Lord’s blessing upon you."