Psalms – Chapter 136

Old Testament9 Verses

1Upon the rivers of Babylon, there we sat and wept: when we remembered Sion:

2On the willows in the midst thereof we hung up our instruments.

3For there they that led us into captivity required of us the words of songs. And they that carried us away, said: Sing ye to us a hymn of the songs of Sion.

4How shall we sing the song of the Lord in a strange land?

5If I forget thee, O Jerusalem, let my right hand be forgotten.

6Let my tongue cleave to my jaws, if I do not remember thee: If I make not Jerusalem the beginning of my joy.

7Remember, O Lord, the children of Edom, in the day of Jerusalem: Who say: Rase it, rase it, even to the foundation thereof.

8O daughter of Babylon, miserable: blessed shall he be who shall repay thee thy payment which thou hast paid us.

9Blessed be he that shall take and dash thy little ones against the rock.

Reflection for Today

In Psalms Chapter 136, we encounter the continuing revelation of prayer, praise, and the full range of human emotion before God. The Catholic Church, guided by the Holy Spirit, has always treasured these sacred texts. the Psalms are the prayer book of the Church, prayed daily in the Liturgy of the Hours (CIC 2585-2589). The central message—God invites us to bring all our emotions to Him—speaks to believers in every age.

The Magisterium teaches that Scripture must be interpreted in light of the whole of revelation and the Church's living Tradition. The Catechism emphasizes that "the task of giving an authentic interpretation of the Word of God has been entrusted to the living teaching office of the Church alone" (CIC 85). This does not limit our engagement with Scripture but ensures its proper understanding.

As you reflect on this chapter, consider how its message applies to your life today. The Word of God is living and active, capable of transforming hearts and renewing minds. Through prayer and meditation, allow the Holy Spirit to speak to you through these ancient yet ever-new words.

💡Catholic Reflection • Church Teachings

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