1A Song of degrees for Solomon. Unless the LORD builds the house, they labor in vain who build it; unless the LORD keeps the city, the watchman stays awake in vain.
2It is vain for you to rise up early, to sit up late, to eat the bread of sorrows; for so He gives His beloved sleep.
3Lo, children are the inheritance of the LORD; the fruit of the womb is a reward.
4As arrows in the hand of a mighty man, so are the sons of the young.
5Blessed is the man who has his quiver full of them; they shall not be ashamed, but they shall speak with the enemies in the gate.