1 Unless Jehovah builds the house, they labor in vain who build it; unless Jehovah guards the city, the watchman stays awake in vain.

2 It 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.

3 Behold, children are a heritage from Jehovah, the fruit of the womb is a reward.

4 Like arrows in the hand of a mighty man, so are the sons of one’s youth.

5 Blessed is the man who has his quiver full of them; they shall not be ashamed, but shall speak with their enemies in the gate.