The general movement of these songs of Ascents is preserved in this case by the marginal reading of the first verse, better than by the text as it stands in the R.V. “When Jehovah brought back those that returned to Zion.” The pilgrims have looked back and praised Jehovah for escape. They have looked on, and praised Him for their hope and present sense of security. Now they break forth into an expression of their glad experience.
It is all so wonderful this restoration by Jehovah, that it is hardly believable, it is as though they dreamed. Laughter and singing are the only fitting expressions of their rejoicing hearts. Even the nations are compelled to recognise the doings of Jehovah on their behalf. Yet in the consciousness of the wonders wrought by Jehovah is created a keen sense of their own imperfection. The deliverance is not yet complete, and the prayer is offered, “Turn again our captivity,” of as Dr. Kirkpatrick translates, “Restore our fortunes.” The restoration already in progress is the inspiration of the prayer for its fulfilment. The song ends with a declaration of confidence that the sorrowful experiences of the past must issue in the realisation of all that they so earnestly desire.