Old Testament
Psalms 126:6
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
He who goes forth and weeps, bearing precious seed, shall surely come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.
Compare translations
He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.
What Psalms 126:6 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse speaks to the idea of perseverance and hope in the face of hardship. The imagery of someone going out weeping while carrying precious seed suggests that the act of sowing, or investing in something valuable, often comes with struggle and sorrow. However, the promise is that those who endure this difficult process will eventually return with joy, bringing in a bountiful harvest represented by the sheaves. This reflects a deeper spiritual truth: that through our trials and sacrifices, we can expect to see fruitful outcomes. The 'precious seed' symbolizes the efforts and sacrifices we make in our lives, whether in relationships, work, or faith. The verse encourages believers to remain steadfast, trusting that their efforts will lead to joy and fulfillment in the future, despite current challenges.
How to apply Psalms 126:6 to your life
In our daily lives, we may face challenges that cause us to weep or feel discouraged. This verse encourages us to keep working hard and investing in what matters, trusting that our efforts will lead to joy and success in the future. Remember to focus on the long-term rewards of your labor.
Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Noah's story: Noah Is Born (Genesis 5:28–32)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Noah
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725043). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nablus and Mount Gerizim, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Shechem
Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Psalms 126:6
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Psalms 126:6
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Psalms
- Author
- David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
- Written
- Around 1000-500 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and worship
- Original Audience
- Worshipers of Israel
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Psalms 126:6 mean?
Psalms 126:6 conveys the message that those who endure hardship while investing in valuable endeavors will ultimately experience joy and success. The verse uses the imagery of sowing seeds to illustrate that even through struggles, there is hope for a fruitful outcome.
What is the meaning of 'precious seed' in Psalms 126:6?
In Psalms 126:6, 'precious seed' symbolizes the efforts and sacrifices we make in various aspects of life, such as relationships, work, or faith. It emphasizes that what we invest, even amidst tears and challenges, holds great value and potential for future rewards.
How can I apply Psalms 126:6 in my life?
You can apply Psalms 126:6 by remaining committed to your goals and values even when faced with challenges. Trust that your hard work and sacrifices will lead to positive outcomes and joy in the future.
What themes are present in Psalms 126:6?
Psalms 126:6 highlights themes of perseverance, hope, the principle of sowing and reaping, joy in the harvest, faithfulness, and sacrifice. These themes encourage individuals to stay steadfast in their efforts.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.