| NET Bible | International Standard Version |
| 1A song of ascents, by Solomon. If the LORD does not build a house, then those who build it work in vain. If the LORD does not guard a city, then the watchman stands guard in vain. | 1Unless the LORD builds the house, its builders labor uselessly. Unless the LORD guards the city, its security forces keep watch uselessly. |
| 2It is vain for you to rise early, come home late, and work so hard for your food. Yes, he can provide for those whom he loves even when they sleep. | 2It is useless to get up early and to stay up late, eating the food of exhausting labor— truly he gives sleep to those he loves. |
| 3Yes, sons are a gift from the LORD, the fruit of the womb is a reward. | 3Children are a gift from the LORD; a productive womb, the LORD's reward. |
| 4Sons born during one's youth are like arrows in a warrior's hand. | 4As arrows in the hand of a warrior, so also are children born during one's youth. |
| 5How blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them! They will not be put to shame when they confront enemies at the city gate. | 5How blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them! He will not be ashamed as they confront their enemies at the city gate. |
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