Psalms 137:2

Authorized King James Version

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We hanged our harps upon the willows in the midst thereof.

Original Language Analysis

עַֽל H5921
עַֽל
Strong's: H5921
Word #: 1 of 5
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
עֲרָבִ֥ים upon the willows H6155
עֲרָבִ֥ים upon the willows
Strong's: H6155
Word #: 2 of 5
a willow (from the use of osiers as wattles)
בְּתוֹכָ֑הּ in the midst H8432
בְּתוֹכָ֑הּ in the midst
Strong's: H8432
Word #: 3 of 5
a bisection, i.e., (by implication) the center
תָּ֝לִ֗ינוּ We hanged H8518
תָּ֝לִ֗ינוּ We hanged
Strong's: H8518
Word #: 4 of 5
to suspend (especially to gibbet)
כִּנֹּרוֹתֵֽינוּ׃ our harps H3658
כִּנֹּרוֹתֵֽינוּ׃ our harps
Strong's: H3658
Word #: 5 of 5
a harp

Analysis & Commentary

We hanged our harps upon the willows in the midst thereof (עַל־עֲרָבִים בְּתוֹכָהּ תָּלִינוּ כִּנֹּרוֹתֵינוּ)—The instruments of worship become silent memorials. Kinnor (lyre/harp) accompanied temple praise; hanging them on aravim (willows/poplars) along Babylonian canals symbolizes worship's suspension. Not destroyed but dormant—hope's stubborn refusal to adapt.

This gesture protests forced assimilation. Babylon wanted Israel's music without Israel's God (v. 3)—entertainment divorced from devotion. The silenced harps testify that true worship cannot be commodified or coerced. They wait for legitimate context—temple, Zion, freedom.

Historical Context

Babylonian reliefs show musicians in royal courts—conquered peoples provided cultural entertainment. The exiles' refusal to perform represents cultural resistance. The willows likely refer to Euphrates poplars, trees associated with Mesopotamian waterways.

Questions for Reflection