When Sion's captives God returned

1. When Sion's captives God returned.
Such an illustrious theme,
Struck us with wonder and surprise;
We were like them that dream.
2. Then was our mouth with laughter filled,
Our tongue for joy did shout;
The heathen said, the Lord, for them,
Great things hath brought about.

3. With joy, we own, great things for us,
Are wrought, Lord, by thy hand.
4. Return the remnant; and 'twill be
Like streams to south parched land.
5. Who sow in tears, in joy shall reap,
6. They that go forth, and mourn,
Bearing choice seed, shall sure with joy,
Laden with sheaves, return.

A New Version of the Psalms of David, 1752