King James Version
What Does Psalms 137:2 Mean?
“We hanged our harps upon the willows in the midst thereof.”
Context
1
By the rivers of Babylon, there we sat down, yea, we wept, when we remembered Zion.
2
We hanged our harps upon the willows in the midst thereof.
3
For there they that carried us away captive required of us a song ; and they that wasted us required of us mirth, saying, Sing us one of the songs of Zion. a song: Heb. the words of a song wasted: Heb. laid us on heaps
4
How shall we sing the LORD'S song in a strange land? strange: Heb. land of a stranger?
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(2) **Willows.**—It is perhaps not necessary to attempt to identify the trees mentioned in this verse, since the touching picture may only be a poetical way of expressing the silence during the exile of all the religious and festal songs. The ‘*ereb’ *is certainly not the *willow, *a tree not found in Babylonia, but the *poplar *(*Populus Euphraticus*)*.*
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
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 137:2 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 137:2
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge