Psalms 137:1-4
Summary for Ps 137:1-9: Ps 137 a In response to the pain of exile (137:1-4 b), the psalmist resolves to remember Jerusalem even though the memories cause him pain (137:4-6 c). He also writes an astounding imprecation, or prayer for vengeance (137:7-9 d).Summary for Ps 137:2-4: 137:2-4 e Because the music of Jerusalem was tied to the joys of life in the Promised Land, the Exile removed any occasion for singing joyous songs. The Babylonians wanted the Judeans to sing and dance for them, but the exiles’ grief made doing so either distasteful or impossible. The songs celebrating the Lord speak of his power and goodness, but his people were filled with doubts and questions. They hung their harps in trees, perhaps signifying the death of their joy under God’s curse (Deut 21:23 f).
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