A Song of degrees for Solomon.

1 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.

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.