1“A psalm of the steps, or the goings up. By Solomon.” Except the LORD build the house, The builders labor in vain; Except the LORD guard the city, The watchman waketh in vain.

2In vain ye rise up early, and go to rest late, And eat the bread of care! The same giveth he his beloved one in sleep.

3Behold! sons are an inheritance from the LORD, And the fruit of the womb is his gift.

4As arrows in the hand of the warrior, So are the sons of young men:

5Happy the man that hath his quiver full of them! They shall not be put to shame, When they speak with adversaries in the gate.