The blessing pronounced in these verses seems to be given in Jerusalem itself (for Zion as a name for the Temple or for the city, see 2.6). In some languages from Zion may require additional information to prevent misunderstanding; for example, “May the LORD who lives in his Temple bless you” or “May the LORD bless you from his Temple in Zion.” In verse 5b, instead of see the prosperity of Jerusalem, New Jerusalem Bible and New English Bible translate “share the prosperity of Jerusalem” (see Briggs). All the days of your life comes at the end of verse 5; New International Version places it after the prayer in line a; this is possible and may be followed.

The final wish (verse 6) is that the man live long enough to see his grandchildren. Long life and descendants are considered a blessing from God, as is true in many cultures today.

For the final Peace be upon Israel, see 125.5.

Quoted with permission from Bratcher, Robert G. and Reyburn, William D. A Handbook on the Book of Psalms. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 1991. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .