Psalms 127:4

4 As arrows in the hand of a mighty man, So are the children of youth.

Psalms 127:4 Meaning and Commentary

Psalms 127:4

As arrows [are] in the hand of a mighty man
Are shot out with great strength; come with much force, and do execution, and do not return in vain; with which men defend themselves, and annoy their enemies; see ( Jeremiah 50:9 ) ;

so [are] children of the youth:
not young children, or children in their youth; but such who are born to their parents when they are in their youth; and which are generally healthful and strong, and their parents live to see them grown up; and who are useful to protect them, and defend their persons and properties from enemies when grown old and feeble, and unable to defend themselves: whereas children born to them in old age are generally unhealthy and weak; and besides, their parents rarely live to see them brought up, or to be helpful to them. So Christ's spiritual seed and offspring, who are the dew of his youth, are strong, and overcome the evil one; and are serviceable in the defence of his cause and interest.

Psalms 127:4 In-Context

1 Except Jehovah build the house, They labor in vain that build it: Except Jehovah keep the city, The watchman waketh but in vain.

2 It is vain for you to rise up early, To take rest late, To eat the bread of toil; [For] so he giveth unto his beloved sleep.

3 Lo, children are a heritage of Jehovah; [And] the fruit of the womb is [his] reward.

4 As arrows in the hand of a mighty man, So are the children of youth.

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