A Song of Degrees. Of Solomon

1 Except Jehovah build the house, In vain they labor that build it; Except Jehovah keep the city, In vain watcheth the watchman.

2 Vain is it for you early to hasten to rise, To go late to rest, To eat the bread of sorrows: For thus will he give to his beloved one sleep.

3 Lo! the heritage of Jehovah are children: The reward which he bestows is the fruit of the womb.

4 As arrows in the hand of a strong man, So are the sons of youth.

5 Blessed is the man who shall have filled his quiver with them; For they shall not be ashamed when they speak with their enemies in the gate.