World English Bible

Psalm 127

Psalm 127 is a brief Song of Ascents that places ordinary human labor under the question of dependence on God. Building, guarding, early rising, anxious work, sleep, family, and public life at the city gate appear in two compact movements. The poem does not condemn responsible effort; it challenges the illusion that effort alone secures a household or community. Its language about children reflects the social world of families, inheritance, protection, and continuity.

1<<A Song of Ascents. By Solomon.>> Unless Yahweh builds the house, they labor in vain who build it. Unless Yahweh watches over the city, the watchman guards it in vain.

2It is vain for you to rise up early, to stay up late, eating the bread of toil; for he gives sleep to his loved ones.

3Behold, children are a heritage of Yahweh. The fruit of the womb is his reward.

4As arrows in the hand of a mighty man, so are the children of youth.

5Happy is the man who has his quiver full of them. They won't be disappointed when they speak with their enemies in the gate.

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Scripture text: World English Bible (public domain).