Revised Standard Version RSV
GOD'S WORD Translation GW
1 A Song of Ascents. Of Solomon. Unless the LORD builds the house, those who build it labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the watchman stays awake in vain.
1
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.
2 It is in vain that you rise up early and go late to rest, eating the bread of anxious toil; for he gives to his beloved sleep.
2
It 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.
3 Lo, sons are a heritage from the LORD, the fruit of the womb a reward.
3
Children are an inheritance from the LORD. They are a reward from him.
4 Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the sons of one's youth.
4
The children born to a man when he is young are like arrows in the hand of a warrior.
5 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.
5
Blessed 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.
Revised Standard Version of the Bible, copyright 1952 [2nd edition, 1971] by the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
GOD'S WORD® is a copyrighted work of God's Word to the Nations. Copyright © 1995 by God's Word to the Nations. All rights reserved. Used by permission.