Psalm 127:5

Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them. He will not be put to shame when he confronts the enemies at the gate.

Study Bible

Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them.
This phrase emphasizes the blessing of having many children, likening them to arrows in a quiver. In ancient Israelite culture, children were considered a sign of God's favor and a source of strength and security for the family. A full quiver symbolizes readiness and protection, as arrows were essential for defense and hunting. The imagery of a quiver full of arrows suggests preparedness and the ability to face challenges. This concept is echoed in Genesis 1:28, where God commands humanity to "be fruitful and multiply." The blessing of children is also seen in the lives of patriarchs like Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, whose descendants became the nation of Israel.

He will not be put to shame
In biblical times, honor and shame were significant social values. A man with many children would not face shame because his family would provide support and defense. This assurance of not being put to shame is a promise of social stability and respect within the community. The idea of avoiding shame is a recurring theme in Scripture, as seen in Romans 10:11, which states that those who believe in Christ will not be put to shame. This reflects the ultimate security found in God's promises.

when he confronts the enemies at the gate.
The "gate" was a critical location in ancient cities, serving as the place for legal matters, business transactions, and defense against enemies. Confronting enemies at the gate implies a situation of potential conflict or legal dispute. A man with a large family would have the advantage of support and strength in such confrontations. This imagery can be connected to the protection and advocacy that Christ provides for believers, as seen in passages like Romans 8:31, which assures that if God is for us, no one can stand against us. The gate also symbolizes the place of judgment, where Christ, as the ultimate defender, stands for His people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Blessed Man
Represents a person who is favored by God, particularly one who has a large family or many children.

2. The Quiver
A metaphor for a family, specifically children, symbolizing strength and protection.

3. The Gate
In ancient times, the city gate was a place of legal and social transactions, where disputes were settled and justice was administered.

4. Enemies
Those who oppose or bring challenges to the blessed man, possibly in legal or social contexts.

5. The Psalmist
Traditionally attributed to Solomon, this psalm reflects wisdom literature themes, emphasizing the value of family and divine blessing.

Teaching Points

The Blessing of Children
Children are a heritage from the Lord and a source of joy and strength for families.

Family as a Defense
A strong family unit provides support and protection against life's challenges, much like a quiver full of arrows.

Engagement in Community
Being active in community and legal matters, as symbolized by the gate, is important for upholding justice and righteousness.

Raising Godly Offspring
Parents are called to nurture their children in faith, preparing them to face the world with confidence and integrity.

Trust in God's Provision
Trusting in God's provision and blessing, rather than solely in human effort, is crucial for a fulfilling life.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the metaphor of a "quiver full of them" shape our understanding of the value of children in a family?

2. In what ways can families today engage with their communities to reflect the biblical principle of contending "with the enemies in the gate"?

3. How can we apply the concept of children as a blessing in a society that often views them as a burden?

4. What practical steps can parents take to ensure they are raising their children in the "training and instruction of the Lord" as mentioned in Ephesians 6:4?

5. How does trusting in God's provision, as seen in Psalm 127, influence our approach to family planning and raising children?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 22:17
God's promise to Abraham about his descendants being as numerous as the stars, highlighting the blessing of a large family.

Proverbs 17:6
Speaks of children as a crown to the aged, reinforcing the idea of children as a blessing.

Deuteronomy 6:6-7
Encourages teaching children God's commandments, emphasizing the importance of raising a godly family.

Ephesians 6:4
Advises fathers to bring up their children in the training and instruction of the Lord, connecting to the responsibility of raising children in faith.