Psalms 127

1 A song of degrees, or Psalme of Salomon. Except the Lord build the house, they labour in vaine that build it: except the Lord keepe the citie, the keeper watcheth in vaine.

“A psalm of the steps, or the goings up. By Solomon.” Except the LORD build the house, The builders labor in vain; Except the LORD guard the city, The watchman waketh in vain.

2 It is in vaine for you to rise earely, and to lie downe late, and eate the bread of sorow: but he wil surely giue rest to his beloued.

In vain ye rise up early, and go to rest late, And eat the bread of care! The same giveth he his beloved one in sleep.

3 Beholde, children are the inheritance of the Lord, and the fruite of the wombe his rewarde.

Behold! sons are an inheritance from the LORD, And the fruit of the womb is his gift.

4 As are the arrowes in the hand of ye strong man: so are the children of youth.

As arrows in the hand of the warrior, So are the sons of young men:

5 Blessed is the man, that hath his quiuer full of them: for they shall not be ashamed, when they speake with their enemies in the gate.

Happy the man that hath his quiver full of them! They shall not be put to shame, When they speak with adversaries in the gate.