SHIR LE MAALOT

SHIR HA-MA'ALOT (Song of Ascent), the superscription of Psalms 120–134. These psalms are now generally understood to have been sung by the pilgrims as they went up to Jerusalem to celebrate the three Pilgrim Festivals. Those carrying the first fruits chanted Psalm 122 as they approached Jerusalem. In the Ashkenazi rite, these psalms are recited together with Psalm 104 on Sabbath afternoons during the winter season and also on Tu bi-Shevat. Psalm 126 is sung in the home before Grace after Meals on Sabbaths and festivals.