P.CXXXVII. When we, our weary limbs to rest

1 When we, our wearied limbs to rest,
Sat down by proud Euphrates' stream,
We wept, with doleful thoughts opprest,
And Zion was our mournful theme.

2 Our harps, that, when with joy we sung,
Were wont their tuneful parts to bear,
With silent strings neglected hung,
On willow trees that wither'd there.

3 Meanwhile our foes, who all conspir'd
To triumph in our slavish wrongs,
Music and mirth of us requir'd,
"Come, sing us one of Zion's songs."

4 How shall we tune our voice to sing,
Or touch our Harps with skilful hands?
Shall hymns of joy to God, our King,
Be sung by slaves in foreign lands?

5 O Salem, our once happy seat!
When I of thee forgetful prove,
Let then my trembling hand forget
The speaking strings with art to move.

6 If I to mention thee forbear,
Eternal silence seize my tongue;
Or if I sing one cheerful air,
Till thy deliv'rance is my song.

7 Remember, Lord, how Edom's race,
In thy own city's fatal day,
Cry'd out, "Her stately walls deface,
"And with the ground quite level lay."

8 Proud Babel's daughter, doom'd to be
Of grief and woe the wretched prey;
Bless'd is the man who shall to thee,
The wrongs thou laidst on us repay.

9 Thrice bless'd, who with just rage possest
And deaf to all the parents' moans,
Shall snatch thy infants from the breast
And dash their heads against the stones.

Text Information
First Line: When we, our weary limbs to rest
Meter: L. M.
Language: English
Publication Date: 1816
Scripture:
Topic: The Babylonian Captivity
Tune Information
(No tune information)



Media
More media are available on the text authority page.

Suggestions or corrections? Contact us