King James Version

What Does Psalms 126:5 Mean?

Psalms 126:5 in the King James Version says “They that sow in tears shall reap in joy. joy: or, singing” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 126 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

“They that sow in tears shall reap in joy. joy: or, singing”

Psalms 126:5 · KJV

Joy

Context

3

The LORD hath done great things for us; whereof we are glad.

4

Turn again our captivity , O LORD, as the streams in the south.

5

They that sow in tears shall reap in joy. joy: or, singing

6

He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him. precious: or, seed basket

Read Psalms 126 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
A principle of sowing and reaping is introduced: 'They that sow in tears shall reap in joy.' This agricultural metaphor connects planting in difficult circumstances with eventual harvest in better times. 'Sowing in tears' captures the experience of faithful labor during suffering - continuing kingdom work despite pain, loss, or opposition. Tears represent sorrow, grief, or hardship accompanying present effort. The promise 'shall reap in joy' guarantees future harvest that corresponds to faithful sowing. Reaping produces joy proportionate to sowing's difficulty. This principle applies to multiple contexts: (1) literal return from exile and rebuilding, (2) spiritual labor that seems fruitless, (3) suffering that eventually produces character and blessing, (4) evangelism and discipleship that bear fruit over time. The verse encourages perseverance by promising that tearful sowing isn't wasted - joy-filled harvest will come.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Post-exilic returnees literally sowed crops in difficult conditions - land had been desolate 70 years, infrastructure was destroyed, opposition was intense (Nehemiah 4; Haggai 1:6). Planting seemed futile, yet God promised fruitfulness. The metaphor also captures the exile experience itself - suffering seemed permanent, yet restoration came. The principle assured struggling communities that faithfulness during hardship produces future blessing.

Reflection Questions

  1. What does it mean to 'sow in tears' - what kind of activities constitute tearful sowing?
  2. How does this principle encourage perseverance during seemingly fruitless seasons?
  3. What guarantees that tearful sowing will eventually produce joyful reaping?
  4. How does this verse apply to evangelism, discipleship, and other ministry that seems unfruitful?
  5. In what ways does the time gap between sowing and reaping test and strengthen faith?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 4 words
הַזֹּרְעִ֥ים1 of 4

“They that sow”

H2232

to sow; figuratively, to disseminate, plant, fructify

בְּדִמְעָ֗ה2 of 4

“in tears”

H1832

weeping

בְּרִנָּ֥ה3 of 4

“in joy”

H7440

properly, a creaking (or shrill sound), i.e., shout (of joy or grief)

יִקְצֹֽרוּ׃4 of 4

“shall reap”

H7114

to dock off, i.e., curtail (transitive or intransitive, literal or figurative); especially to harvest (grass or grain)

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Psalms. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Psalms 126:5 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Psalms 126:5 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Galatians 6:9Isaiah 35:10John 16:20-22Joel 2:23Matthew 5:4Jeremiah 31:9-13

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