Summary
The psalm opens with a description of Israel’s return from exile, comparing the experience to a dream (v.1). It records the people’s joy, expressed in laughter and singing, and the proclamation that the Lord has performed great works (v.2‑3). The psalm then petitions God to restore their captivity again, comparing the desired restoration to the flow of southern streams (v.4). Finally, the psalm promises that those who sow in tears will reap joy and that those who go out weeping will return triumphant with abundant harvest (v.5‑6). The passage links suffering with future blessing, emphasizing God’s faithfulness and the transformative power of deliverance.