You help make Hymnary.org possible.

In 2025, more than 10 million people from 200+ countries found hymns, liturgical resources, and encouragement here. If Hymnary has meant something to you this year, would you take a moment to help sustain it? A gift of any size — and a note of encouragement, if you'd like to share one — directly supports the server costs, research, and curation that keep this resource freely available to the world.

Give securely online today, or mail a check to:
Hymnary.org (c/o Calvin University)
3201 Burton Street SE
Grand Rapids, MI 49546

Thank you for being part of this important online ministry resource.

P126b. When Zion's bondage God turned back

1 When Zion’s bondage God turned back,
as men that dreamed were we.
2 Then filled with laughter was our mouth,
our tongue with melody.
They ‘mong the heathen said, The Lord
great things for them hath wrought.
3 The Lord hath done great things for us,
whence joy to us is brought.

4 As streams of water in the south,
our bondage, Lord, recall.
5 Who sow in tears, a reaping time
of joy enjoy they shall.
6 The man who, bearing precious seed,
in going forth doth mourn,
he doubtless, bringing back his sheaves,
rejoicing shall return.

Text Information
First Line: When Zion's bondage God turned back
Meter: CM
Language: English
Publication Date: 2004
Scripture:
Tune Information
Name: SOUTHWELL (IRONS)
Composer: Herbert Stephen Irons, 1834-1905
Meter: CM
Key: E Major



Media
More media are available on the tune authority page.

Suggestions or corrections? Contact us
It looks like you are using an ad-blocker. Ad revenue helps keep us running. Please consider white-listing Hymnary.org or getting Hymnary Pro to eliminate ads entirely and help support Hymnary.org.