127  A song by Solomon while walking uphill to Yerushalem.

1 If it’s not Yahweh who builds the house, those who build it are just wasting their time.

≈ If it’s not Yahweh who guards the city, the watchman stands guard uselessly.

2 It’s pointless getting up early, then coming home late,

or working so hard to get your food,

because Yahweh provides for those he loves even while they’re asleep.

3 Yes, children are a heritage from Yahweh,

and the product of the womb is a reward.

4 The children of a young man

are like arrows in a warrior’s hand.

5 The man who has his quiver full of them is blessed.

He won’t be put to shame when he confronts his enemies at the community gate.