Psalm 127:3

Children are indeed a heritage from the LORD, and the fruit of the womb is His reward.

Study Bible

Children
The Hebrew word for "children" is "בָּנִים" (banim), which is derived from the root "בָּנָה" (banah), meaning "to build." This etymology suggests that children are integral to the building and continuation of a family and society. In the ancient Near Eastern context, children were seen as essential for the survival and prosperity of a family line. They were not only a source of labor and support but also carriers of the family name and legacy. From a conservative Christian perspective, children are viewed as a divine blessing and a vital part of God's plan for humanity, emphasizing the importance of family and generational continuity.

are indeed a heritage
The phrase "are indeed a heritage" uses the Hebrew word "נַחֲלָה" (nachalah), which means "inheritance" or "possession." In biblical times, an inheritance was a significant aspect of one's identity and security, often involving land or property passed down through generations. This concept underscores the value and importance of children as a divine gift that should be cherished and nurtured. In a spiritual sense, children are seen as a legacy from God, entrusted to parents to raise in accordance with His will and purposes.

from the LORD
The phrase "from the LORD" highlights the divine origin of children. The Hebrew name for God used here is "יְהוָה" (YHWH), the covenant name of God, emphasizing His personal and relational nature. This indicates that children are not merely biological products but are given by God Himself, reinforcing the belief in God's sovereignty and intentionality in the creation of life. For conservative Christians, this affirms the sanctity of life and the belief that every child is a unique and purposeful creation of God.

and the fruit of the womb
The term "fruit of the womb" uses the Hebrew word "פְּרִי" (peri), meaning "fruit" or "produce." This metaphor likens children to the natural and abundant produce of the earth, suggesting growth, vitality, and blessing. In ancient agrarian societies, fruit was a symbol of prosperity and divine favor. Similarly, children are seen as a sign of God's blessing and favor upon a family. This imagery reinforces the idea that children are a natural and desirable outcome of marriage and family life.

is His reward
The word "reward" is translated from the Hebrew "שָׂכָר" (sachar), which means "wages" or "compensation." This term implies that children are a form of divine recompense or blessing bestowed upon parents. In the biblical context, rewards were often seen as a sign of God's approval and favor. From a conservative Christian viewpoint, this underscores the belief that children are a gracious gift from God, not earned by human effort but given out of His abundant love and grace. This perspective encourages gratitude and responsibility in parenting, recognizing children as a precious trust from the Lord.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Solomon
- Traditionally attributed as the author of Psalm 127, Solomon was the son of King David and known for his wisdom. This psalm is part of the Songs of Ascents, which were sung by pilgrims traveling to Jerusalem.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
- The covenant name of God in the Hebrew Bible, emphasizing His role as the giver of life and blessings.

3. Children
- Referred to as a heritage and reward from God, highlighting their value and significance in the family and community.

Teaching Points

Children as a Divine Gift
Recognize that children are a blessing and a gift from God, not merely a product of human effort or planning. This perspective should influence how we value and treat children in our families and communities.

Stewardship of Heritage
As children are a heritage from the Lord, parents and guardians have a responsibility to raise them in the knowledge and fear of God, ensuring that they understand their identity and purpose in Him.

The Reward of Parenthood
Parenthood is not only a responsibility but also a reward. Embrace the joys and challenges of raising children as part of God’s reward system, which brings fulfillment and purpose.

Community Responsibility
The community of faith should support families in raising children, recognizing that the upbringing of children is a communal effort that impacts the broader body of Christ.

Intergenerational Impact
Understand that the way we raise our children has a lasting impact on future generations. Instilling godly values and principles ensures a legacy of faithfulness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does viewing children as a heritage from the Lord change the way we approach parenting or interacting with children in our community?

2. In what ways can the church community support families in raising children according to biblical principles?

3. How can we practically apply the concept of stewardship when it comes to raising children in today’s society?

4. What are some challenges parents face today in viewing children as a reward, and how can they overcome these challenges with biblical truth?

5. How can the principles found in Psalm 127:3 be applied to other areas of life where God has given us a "heritage" or "reward"?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 1:28
- This verse connects to the idea of children as a blessing, as God commands humanity to be fruitful and multiply, indicating that children are part of God's original design and blessing for mankind.

Deuteronomy 6:6-7
- These verses emphasize the importance of teaching children about God’s commandments, reinforcing the idea that children are a heritage to be nurtured in the faith.

Proverbs 17:6
- This verse speaks of grandchildren as the crown of the aged, further illustrating the value and blessing of children within the family structure.