Psalm 129

A Song of degrees.

1        Oft did they vex me from my youth,

                   may Isr'el now declare;

2        Oft did they vex me from my youth,

                   yet not victorious were.

3        The plowers plow'd upon my back;

                   they long their furrows drew.

4        The righteous Lord did cut the cords

                   of the ungodly crew.

5        Let Sion's haters all be turn'd

                   back with confusion.

6        As grass on houses' tops be they,

                   which fades ere it be grown:

7        Whereof enough to fill his hand

                   the mower cannot find;

          Nor can the man his bosom fill,

                   whose work is sheaves to bind.

8        Neither say they who do go by,

                   God's blessing on you rest:

          We in the name of God the Lord

                   do wish you to be blest.