Definition: If I do not remember thee, let my tongue cleave to the roof of my mouth; if I prefer not Jerusalem above my chief joy.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down Psalm 137:6. This is a really beautiful and poignant verse from the Bible, and it’s often interpreted as about a person who feels a deep, almost painful connection to a place – specifically, Jerusalem. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: “If I do not remember thee…” – This is the key part. The speaker is saying that they don’t remember the place of importance – Jerusalem – and they feel a strong sense of loss or longing for it. “…let my tongue cleave to the roof of my mouth.” - This means their voice, their words, are practically glued to their mouth. They're desperately trying to hold onto that memory, feeling a powerful urge to speak about it. It’s like they’re trapped in a conversation with Jerusalem itself. “…if I prefer not Jerusalem above my chief joy.” – This is the most evocative part. “Chief joy” refers to something incredibly precious and important to them. So, this verse suggests that the speaker feels an overwhelming sense of sadness or regret because they cannot let go of their connection to Jerusalem. It’s a feeling of being deeply attached to it, perhaps even to the point of pain. Putting it all together: The verse describes a person who is experiencing a profound and almost unbearable longing for Jerusalem – a place that holds immense significance for them. They feel compelled to speak about it constantly, as if they can’t stop thinking about it. It's a powerful expression of deep emotional attachment and perhaps a touch of regret or sadness. Possible Interpretations: A Poet/Writer: It could be interpreted as a poet reflecting on the beauty and importance of Jerusalem. Someone Who Has Lost Something: It might represent someone who has lost something incredibly precious – a loved one, a dream, or a moment in time. A Person with a Strong Connection to Place: The verse speaks to a person who feels deeply connected to a specific location and finds it difficult to let go of that connection. Important Note: The meaning of this verse is often debated among theologians and scholars. It’s a complex and layered passage, and there's no single definitive interpretation. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the Psalm? Discuss the context of the verse in the book of Psalms? Explore some different interpretations of this verse?