New International Version NIV
Common English Bible CEB
1 Unless the LORD builds the house, the builders labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the guards stand watch in vain.
1
Unless it is the LORD who builds the house, the builders' work is pointless. Unless it is the LORD who protects the city, the guard on duty is pointless.
2 In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for food to eat— for he grants sleep to those he loves.
2
It is pointless that you get up early and stay up late, eating the bread of hard labor because God gives sleep to those he loves.
3 Children are a heritage from the LORD, offspring a reward from him.
3
No doubt about it: children are a gift from the LORD; the fruit of the womb is a divine reward.
4 Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are children born in one’s youth.
4
The children born when one is young are like arrows in the hand of a warrior.
5 Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them. They will not be put to shame when they contend with their opponents in court.
5
The person who fills a quiver full with them is truly happy! They won't be ashamed when arguing with their enemies in the gate.