1A song by Solomon for going up to worship. If the Lord does not build the house, it is useless for the builders to work on it. If the Lord does not protect a city, it is useless for the guard to stay alert.
2It is useless to work hard for the food you eat by getting up early and going to bed late. The Lord gives {food} to those he loves while they sleep.
3Children are an inheritance from the Lord. They are a reward from him.
4The children born to a man when he is young are like arrows in the hand of a warrior.
5Blessed is the man who has filled his quiver with them. He will not be put to shame when he speaks with his enemies in the city gate.