1. [A Song of degrees for Solomon.] Except the LORD build the house, they labour in vain that build it: except the LORD keep the city, the watchman waketh {but} in vain. {for...: or, of Solomon} {that...: Heb. that are builders of it in it}

2. {It is} vain for you to rise up early, to sit up late, to eat the bread of sorrows: {for} so he giveth his beloved sleep.

3. Lo, children {are} an heritage of the LORD: {and} the fruit of the womb {is his} reward.

4. As arrows {are} in the hand of a mighty man; so {are} children of the youth.

5. Happy {is} the man that hath his quiver full of them: they shall not be ashamed, but they shall speak with the enemies in the gate. {his...: Heb. filled his quiver with them} {speak...: or, subdue, or, destroy}