| New King James Version | NET Bible |
| 1A Song of Ascents. Of Solomon. Unless the LORD builds the house, They labor in vain who build it; Unless the LORD guards the city, The watchman stays awake in vain. | 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. |
| 2It is vain for you to rise up early, To sit up late, To eat the bread of sorrows; For so He gives His beloved sleep. | 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. |
| 3Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, The fruit of the womb is a reward. | 3Yes, sons are a gift from the LORD, the fruit of the womb is a reward. |
| 4Like arrows in the hand of a warrior, So are the children of one’s youth. | 4Sons born during one's youth are like arrows in a warrior's hand. |
| 5Happy is the man who has his quiver full of them; They shall not be ashamed, But shall speak with their enemies in the gate. | 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. |
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