1If God doesn't build the house, the builders only build shacks. If God doesn't guard the city, the night watchman might as well nap.
2It's useless to rise early and go to bed late, and work your worried fingers to the bone. Don't you know he enjoys giving rest to those he loves?
3Don't you see that children are God's best gift? the fruit of the womb his generous legacy?
4Like a warrior's fistful of arrows are the children of a vigorous youth.
5Oh, how blessed are you parents, with your quivers full of children! Your enemies don't stand a chance against you; you'll sweep them right off your doorstep.