Psalms 126:2
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Psalms 126:2
2 Then was our mouth filled with laughter, and our tongue with singing: then said they among the heathen, The LORD hath done great things for them.
Chapter Context
Psalms 126 is a poetic and liturgical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of mercy, fellowship, discipleship. Written during various periods (c. 1000-400 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Temple worship utilized these compositions across various periods of Israel's history.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-6: Development of key themes
This chapter is significant because it demonstrates God's faithfulness despite human unfaithfulness. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Psalms and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Psalms 126:2
2 Then was our mouth filled with laughter, and our tongue with singing: then said they among the heathen, The LORD hath done great things for them.
Analysis
The response to restoration is described: 'Then was our mouth filled with laughter, and our tongue with singing: then said they among the heathen, The LORD hath done great things for them.' The temporal 'then' connects directly to restoration (v. 1). The physical descriptions 'mouth filled with laughter' and 'tongue with singing' emphasize overflow of joy that must express itself audibly. Laughter and singing are spontaneous responses to overwhelming happiness. The verse then notes witness impact: 'among the heathen' (nations), observers acknowledged 'the LORD hath done great things.' Even pagans recognized divine intervention. The phrase 'great things' (Hebrew 'hagdil la'asot') means to act magnificently or do wonders. Restoration wasn't subtle; it was undeniably miraculous, providing witness to surrounding nations. God's acts toward His people testify to His character, potentially drawing others to Him.
Historical Context
Israel's return from exile astonished surrounding nations. Babylon's fall to Persia and Cyrus's unprecedented decree allowing displaced peoples to return testified to divine providence. The rebuilding of Jerusalem and temple, despite opposition (Ezra, Nehemiah), demonstrated supernatural enabling. These acts provided powerful witness to God's faithfulness and power.
Reflection
- How do 'laughter' and 'singing' differ from more restrained expressions of joy? Why are both mentioned?
- What does it mean for mouth to be 'filled' with these responses - what does this suggest about the intensity of joy?
- How does God's work toward His people serve as witness to unbelievers?
- What 'great things' has God done in your life that have been visible to non-believers?
- How should awareness that others observe God's work in our lives shape our testimony?
Word Studies
- Lord: יְהוָה / אֲדֹנָי (YHWH / Adonai) H3068 - The LORD / Lord
Cross-References
- References Lord: Isaiah 35:10, Jeremiah 33:11
- Parallel theme: Psalms 53:6, 71:19, Nehemiah 6:16, Job 8:21