Psalms

Chapter 127

Children Are a Heritage from the LORD

This psalm says that human effort is empty unless the LORD is the one building, guarding, and giving. It first exposes the vanity of anxious labor apart from God, then turns to say that children are not merely the product of toil but a heritage from the LORD, like arrows in a warrior's hand, bringing strength and honor to the one whose house is filled with them.

Within the Songs of Ascents, Psalm 127 adds wisdom to pilgrimage by shifting attention from movement and danger to the ordinary work of building households and securing a future. It fits Book V by reminding God's people that flourishing does not come from restless striving alone, but from receiving the LORD's gift in work, rest, and family life.

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Psalms 127

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vv. 1-5

Children Are a Heritage from the LORD

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A¹ song of ascents. Of Solomon. ²In vain you rise early ³Children are indeed a heritage from the LORD, ⁴Like arrows in the hand of a warrior, ⁵Blessed is the man

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01vv. 1-5Children Are a Heritage from the LORDThe psalm begins by declaring that house-building, city-watching, and early-rising toil are vain if the LORD is not the one at work, because he gives to his beloved even in sleep. It then turns to family life and says that children are the LORD's heritage and reward, like arrows in a warrior's hand, so that the man with a full quiver is blessed and stands with confidence at the gate.