1A song for the ascent to Jerusalem. A psalm of Solomon. Unless the LORD builds a house, the work of the builders is useless. Unless the LORD protects a city, guarding it with sentries will do no good.
2It is useless for you to work so hard from early morning until late at night, anxiously working for food to eat; for God gives rest to his loved ones.
3Children are a gift from the LORD; they are a reward from him.
4Children born to a young man are like sharp arrows in a warrior's hands.
5How happy is the man whose quiver is full of them! He will not be put to shame when he confronts his accusers at the city gates.