Psalm 127

A song of ascents.  Of Solomon.

​Except that the LORD builds the building,
in vain have the laborers toiled.
Except that the LORD keeps the city,
in vain have the guards' sleep been spoiled.

In vain you rise early to labor,
delaying the bedtime you keep,
to anxiously eat bread of sorrows — 
he gives his beloved their sleep.

Your children are gifts from Jehovah,
rewards and the fruits of the womb.
Like arrows in hands of the warrior
are children of youth in full bloom.

How blest is the man in whose quiver
is filled with the ones he creates.
He will not be shamed when confronting
​his enemies there in the gates.