New International Version NIV
New Revised Standard NRS
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 the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain. Unless the Lord guards the city, the guard keeps watch in vain.
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 in vain that you rise up early and go late to rest, eating the bread of anxious toil; for he gives sleep to his beloved.
3 Children are a heritage from the LORD, offspring a reward from him.
3
Sons are indeed a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward.
4 Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are children born in one’s youth.
4
Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the sons of one's youth.
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.
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Happy is the man who has his quiver full of them. He shall not be put to shame when he speaks with his enemies in the gate.