Psalm 137 Mar. 18  1By the rivers of Babylon there we sat down, and yes, we wept when we remembered Zion. 2On the willows in its midst we hung up our harps. 3For there, those who led us captive asked us for songs. Those who tormented us demanded us songs of joy: Sing us one of the songs of Zion! 4How could we sing Yahweh’s song in a foreign land? 5If I forget you, Jerusalem, let my right hand forget its skill. 6Let my tongue stick to the roof of my mouth if I don’t remember you; if I don’t prefer Jerusalem above my chief joy. 7Remember, Yahweh, against the children of Edom, the day of Jerusalem; who said, Raze it! Raze it even to its foundation! 8Daughter of Babylon, doomed to destruction, he will be happy who rewards you as you have served us. 9Happy shall he be, who takes and dashes your little ones against the rock.   

Commentary

137:8,9 This extreme language may seem hard to square with the spirit of grace in the New Testament. However, vengeance upon God’s enemies is also taught in the New Testament, especially in Revelation. These words are applied in Rev. 18:8,21 to what will finally happen to Babylon. Her spiritual children will be dashed against the rock of Christ, the stone of Dan. 2:44, at His return. Another perspective to explore is that it may also be that the Psalmist’s attitude was simply wrong, even though the recording of these words was inspired. David likewise spoke words of great grace and also of bitter vengeance against his enemies; the experience of trauma and real evil in life usually makes the sufferer give vent to such extreme feelings.