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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>Psalm 127:1 Unless the LORD builds the house, its builders labor in vain; unless the LORD protects the city, its watchmen stand guard in vain.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/psalms/127-1.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/15/19_Psa_127_001.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Psalm 127:1 - Children are a Heritage From the LORD" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="Unless the LORD builds the house, its builders labor in vain; unless the LORD protects the city, its watchmen stand guard in vain." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/psalms/127-1.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/psalms/127-1.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/psalms/">Psalms</a> > <a href="/psalms/127.htm">Chapter 127</a> > Verse 1</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad1.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/psalms/126-6.htm" title="Psalm 126:6">◄</a> Psalm 127:1 <a href="/psalms/127-2.htm" title="Psalm 127:2">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Heb </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv">Verse<a href="/bsb/psalms/127.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><a href="/niv/psalms/127.htm">New International Version</a> A song of ascents. Of Solomon. Unless the LORD builds the house, the builders labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the guards stand watch in vain. <a href="/nlt/psalms/127.htm">New Living Translation</a> Unless the LORD builds a house, the work of the builders is wasted. Unless the LORD protects a city, guarding it with sentries will do no good. <a href="/esv/psalms/127.htm">English Standard Version</a> 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. <a href="/bsb/psalms/127.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> A song of ascents. Of Solomon. Unless the LORD builds the house, its builders labor in vain; unless the LORD protects the city, its watchmen stand guard in vain. <a href="/kjv/psalms/127.htm">King James Bible</a> A Song of degrees for Solomon. Except the LORD build the house, they labour in vain that build it: except the LORD keep the city, the watchman waketh but in vain. <a href="/nkjv/psalms/127.htm">New King James Version</a> A 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. <a href="/nasb_/psalms/127.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> A Song of Ascents, of Solomon. Unless the LORD builds a house, They who build it labor in vain; Unless the LORD guards a city, The watchman stays awake in vain. <a href="/nasb/psalms/127.htm">NASB 1995</a> A 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 keeps awake in vain. <a href="/nasb77/psalms/127.htm">NASB 1977 </a> Unless the LORD builds the house, They labor in vain who build it; Unless the LORD guards the city, The watchman keeps awake in vain. <a href="/lsb/psalms/127.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> A Song of Ascents. Of Solomon. Unless Yahweh builds the house, They labor in vain who build it; Unless Yahweh watches the city, The watchman keeps awake in vain. <a href="/amp/psalms/127.htm">Amplified Bible</a> A 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 keeps awake in vain. <a href="/csb/psalms/127.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> A song of ascents. Of Solomon. Unless the LORD builds a house, its builders labor over it in vain; unless the LORD watches over a city, the watchman stays alert in vain. <a href="/hcsb/psalms/127.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> A Solomonic song of ascents. Unless the LORD builds a house, its builders labor over it in vain; unless the LORD watches over a city, the watchman stays alert in vain. <a href="/asv/psalms/127.htm">American Standard Version</a> A Song of Ascents; of Solomon. Except Jehovah build the house, They labor in vain that build it: Except Jehovah keep the city, The watchman waketh but in vain. <a href="/cev/psalms/127.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> Without the help of the LORD it is useless to build a home or to guard a city. <a href="/erv/psalms/127.htm">English Revised Version</a> A Song of Ascents; of Solomon. Except the LORD build the house, they labour in vain that build it: except the LORD keep the city, the watchman waketh but in vain. <a href="/gwt/psalms/127.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> [A song by Solomon for going up to worship.] 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. <a href="/gnt/psalms/127.htm">Good News Translation</a> If the LORD does not build the house, the work of the builders is useless; if the LORD does not protect the city, it does no good for the sentries to stand guard. <a href="/isv/psalms/127.htm">International Standard Version</a> Unless the LORD builds the house, its builders labor uselessly. Unless the LORD guards the city, its security forces keep watch uselessly. <a href="/msb/psalms/127.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> A song of ascents. Of Solomon. Unless the LORD builds the house, its builders labor in vain; unless the LORD protects the city, its watchmen stand guard in vain. <a href="/net/psalms/127.htm">NET Bible</a> A 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. <a href="/nheb/psalms/127.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> [A Song of Ascents. By Solomon.] Unless the LORD builds the house, they labor in vain who build it. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the watchman guards it in vain. <a href="/wbt/psalms/127.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> A Song of degrees for Solomon. Except the LORD shall build the house, they labor in vain that build it: except the LORD shall keep the city, the watchman waketh in vain. <a href="/web/psalms/127.htm">World English Bible</a> A Song of Ascents. By Solomon. Unless Yahweh builds the house, they who build it labor in vain. Unless Yahweh watches over the city, the watchman guards it in vain. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/psalms/127.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> A SONG OF THE ASCENTS. BY SOLOMON. If YHWH does not build the house, "" Its builders have labored at it in vain, "" If YHWH does not watch a city, "" A watchman has awoken in vain. <a href="/ylt/psalms/127.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> A Song of the Ascents, by Solomon. If Jehovah doth not build the house, In vain have its builders laboured at it, If Jehovah doth not watch a city, In vain hath a watchman waked. <a href="/slt/psalms/127.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> Song of ascensions to Solomon. If Jehovah shall not build the house, they building it, in it labored in vain. If Jehovah shall not watch the city, he watching, watched in vain.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/psalms/127.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> Unless the Lord build the house, they labour in vain that build it. Unless the Lord keep the city, he watcheth in vain that keepeth it. <a href="/cpdv/psalms/127.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> <V 126:1>A Canticle in steps: of Solomon. Unless the Lord has built the house, those who build it have labored in vain. Unless the Lord has guarded the city, he who guards it watches in vain. <a href="/nabre/psalms/127.htm">New American Bible</a> A song of ascents. Of Solomon. Unless the LORD build the house, they labor in vain who build. Unless the LORD guard the city, in vain does the guard keep watch. <a href="/nrsvce/psalms/127.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> 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.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/psalms/127.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> EXCEPT the LORD build the house, they labor in vain who build it; except the LORD keep the city, the watchmen stay awake in vain. <a href="/hpbt/psalms/127.htm">Peshitta Holy Bible Translated</a> If LORD JEHOVAH does not build the house, its builders labor uselessly, and if LORD JEHOVAH does not keep the city, its keepers wake up uselessly.<div class="vheading2">OT Translations</div><a href="/jps/psalms/127.htm">JPS Tanakh 1917</a> A Song of Ascents; of Solomon. Except the LORD build the house, They labour in vain that build it; Except the LORD keep the city, The watchman waketh but in vain. <a href="/sep/psalms/127.htm">Brenton Septuagint Translation</a> A Song of Degrees. Except the Lord build the house, they that build labour in vain: except the Lord keep the city, the watchman watches in vain. <a href="/parallel/psalms/127-1.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/nFaD2oDhKPc?start=16328" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/psalms/127.htm">Children are a Heritage From the LORD</a> 1<a href="/hebrew/7892.htm" title="7892: šîr (N-msc) -- A song, singing. Or feminine shiyrah; from shiyr; a song; abstractly, singing.">A song</a> <a href="/hebrew/4609.htm" title="4609: ham·ma·‘ă·lō·wṯ (Art:: N-fp) -- Feminine of ma'aleh; elevation, i.e. The act, or the condition; specifically a climactic progression.">of ascents.</a> <a href="/hebrew/8010.htm" title="8010: liš·lō·mōh (Prep-l:: N-proper-ms) -- David's son and successor to his throne. From shalowm; peaceful; Shelomah, David's successor.">Of Solomon.</a> <a href="/hebrew/518.htm" title="518: ’im- (Conj) -- If. A primitive particle; used very widely as demonstrative, lo!"> Unless</a> <a href="/hebrew/3808.htm" title="3808: lō- (Adv-NegPrt) -- Not. Or lowi; or loh; a primitive particle; not; by implication, no; often used with other particles."></a> <a href="/hebrew/3068.htm" title="3068: Yah·weh (N-proper-ms) -- The proper name of the God of Israel. From hayah; self-Existent or Eternal; Jehovah, Jewish national name of God.">the LORD</a> <a href="/hebrew/1129.htm" title="1129: yiḇ·neh (V-Qal-Imperf-3ms) -- To build. A primitive root; to build.">builds</a> <a href="/hebrew/1004.htm" title="1004: ḇa·yiṯ (N-ms) -- A house. Probably from banah abbreviated; a house.">the house,</a> <a href="/hebrew/1129.htm" title="1129: ḇō·w·nāw (V-Qal-Prtcpl-mpc:: 3ms) -- To build. A primitive root; to build.">its builders</a> <a href="/hebrew/5998.htm" title="5998: ‘ā·mə·lū (V-Qal-Perf-3cp) -- To labor, toil. A primitive root; to toil, i.e. Work severely and with irksomeness.">labor</a> <a href="/hebrew/bōw (Prep:: 3ms) -- ">in</a> <a href="/hebrew/7723.htm" title="7723: šāw (N-ms) -- Or shav; from the same as show' in the sense of desolating; evil, literally or morally; figuratively idolatry, uselessness.">vain;</a> <a href="/hebrew/518.htm" title="518: ’im- (Conj) -- If. A primitive particle; used very widely as demonstrative, lo!">unless</a> <a href="/hebrew/3808.htm" title="3808: lō- (Adv-NegPrt) -- Not. Or lowi; or loh; a primitive particle; not; by implication, no; often used with other particles."></a> <a href="/hebrew/3068.htm" title="3068: Yah·weh (N-proper-ms) -- The proper name of the God of Israel. From hayah; self-Existent or Eternal; Jehovah, Jewish national name of God.">the LORD</a> <a href="/hebrew/8104.htm" title="8104: yiš·mār- (V-Qal-Imperf-3ms) -- To keep, watch, preserve. A primitive root; properly, to hedge about, i.e. Guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc.">protects</a> <a href="/hebrew/5892.htm" title="5892: ‘îr (N-fs) -- Excitement. Or par; or ayar; from uwr a city in the widest sense.">the city,</a> <a href="/hebrew/8104.htm" title="8104: šō·w·mêr (V-Qal-Prtcpl-ms) -- To keep, watch, preserve. A primitive root; properly, to hedge about, i.e. Guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc.">its watchmen</a> <a href="/hebrew/8245.htm" title="8245: šā·qaḏ (V-Qal-Perf-3ms) -- To watch, wake. A primitive root; to be alert, i.e. Sleepless; hence to be on the lookout.">stand guard</a> <a href="/hebrew/7723.htm" title="7723: šāw (N-ms) -- Or shav; from the same as show' in the sense of desolating; evil, literally or morally; figuratively idolatry, uselessness.">in vain.</a> 2In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for bread to eat—for He gives sleep to His beloved.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/proverbs/21-30.htm">Proverbs 21:30</a> There is no wisdom, no understanding, no counsel that can prevail against the LORD. <a href="/matthew/7-24.htm">Matthew 7:24-27</a> Therefore everyone who hears these words of Mine and acts on them is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. / The rain fell, the torrents raged, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because its foundation was on the rock. / But everyone who hears these words of Mine and does not act on them is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. ... <a href="/1_corinthians/3-10.htm">1 Corinthians 3:10-15</a> By the grace God has given me, I laid a foundation as an expert builder, and someone else is building on it. But each one must be careful how he builds. / For no one can lay a foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ. / If anyone builds on this foundation using gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, or straw, ... <a href="/isaiah/30-1.htm">Isaiah 30:1</a> “Woe to the rebellious children,” declares the LORD, “to those who carry out a plan that is not Mine, who form an alliance, but against My will, heaping up sin upon sin. <a href="/john/15-5.htm">John 15:5</a> I am the vine and you are the branches. The one who remains in Me, and I in him, will bear much fruit. For apart from Me you can do nothing. <a href="/1_corinthians/15-58.htm">1 Corinthians 15:58</a> Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast and immovable. Always excel in the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain. <a href="/proverbs/16-9.htm">Proverbs 16:9</a> A man’s heart plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps. <a href="/james/4-13.htm">James 4:13-15</a> Come now, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business, and make a profit.” / You do not even know what will happen tomorrow! What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. / Instead, you ought to say, “If the Lord is willing, we will live and do this or that.” <a href="/genesis/11-1.htm">Genesis 11:1-9</a> Now the whole world had one language and a common form of speech. / And as people journeyed eastward, they found a plain in the land of Shinar and settled there. / And they said to one another, “Come, let us make bricks and bake them thoroughly.” So they used brick instead of stone, and tar instead of mortar. ... <a href="/luke/14-28.htm">Luke 14:28-30</a> Which of you, wishing to build a tower, does not first sit down and count the cost to see if he has the resources to complete it? / Otherwise, if he lays the foundation and is unable to finish the work, everyone who sees it will ridicule him, / saying, ‘This man could not finish what he started to build.’ <a href="/1_chronicles/22-10.htm">1 Chronicles 22:10</a> He is the one who will build a house for My Name. He will be My son, and I will be his Father. And I will establish the throne of his kingdom over Israel forever.’ <a href="/jeremiah/29-11.htm">Jeremiah 29:11</a> For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, to give you a future and a hope. <a href="/hebrews/3-4.htm">Hebrews 3:4</a> And every house is built by someone, but God is the builder of everything. <a href="/proverbs/19-21.htm">Proverbs 19:21</a> Many plans are in a man’s heart, but the purpose of the LORD will prevail. <a href="/ecclesiastes/9-11.htm">Ecclesiastes 9:11</a> I saw something else under the sun: The race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong; neither is the bread to the wise, nor the wealth to the intelligent, nor the favor to the skillful. For time and chance happen to all.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>Except the LORD build the house, they labor in vain that build it: except the LORD keep the city, the watchman wakes but in vain.A Song.<a href="/psalms/120-1.htm">Psalm 120:1</a> A Song of degrees. In my distress I cried unto the LORD, and he heard me.<a href="/psalms/121-1.htm">Psalm 121:1</a> A Song of degrees. I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help.<a href="/psalms/122-1.htm">Psalm 122:1</a> A Song of degrees of David. I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the LORD.for Solomon.<a href="/psalms/72-1.htm">Psalm 72:1</a> A Psalm for Solomon. Give the king thy judgments, O God, and thy righteousness unto the king's son.The Lord<a href="/psalms/33-16.htm">Psalm 33:16-18</a> There is no king saved by the multitude of an host: a mighty man is not delivered by much strength… <a href="/proverbs/16-9.htm">Proverbs 16:9</a> A man's heart deviseth his way: but the LORD directeth his steps.<a href="/proverbs/21-30.htm">Proverbs 21:30,31</a> There is no wisdom nor understanding nor counsel against the LORD… build<a href="/1_chronicles/22-10.htm">1 Chronicles 22:10,11</a> He shall build an house for my name; and he shall be my son, and I will be his father; and I will establish the throne of his kingdom over Israel for ever… <a href="/1_chronicles/28-10.htm">1 Chronicles 28:10,20</a> Take heed now; for the LORD hath chosen thee to build an house for the sanctuary: be strong, and do it… <a href="/1_chronicles/29-19.htm">1 Chronicles 29:19</a> And give unto Solomon my son a perfect heart, to keep thy commandments, thy testimonies, and thy statutes, and to do all these things, and to build the palace, for the which I have made provision.they labour<a href="/1_corinthians/15-14.htm">1 Corinthians 15:14</a> And if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain.<a href="/galatians/4-11.htm">Galatians 4:11</a> I am afraid of you, lest I have bestowed upon you labour in vain.that build it.<a href="/psalms/121-3.htm">Psalm 121:3-5</a> He will not suffer thy foot to be moved: he that keepeth thee will not slumber… <a href="/isaiah/27-3.htm">Isaiah 27:3</a> I the LORD do keep it; I will water it every moment: lest any hurt it, I will keep it night and day.<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/psalms/126-6.htm">Ascents</a> <a href="/psalms/119-148.htm">Awake</a> <a href="/psalms/104-17.htm">Build</a> <a href="/psalms/118-22.htm">Builders</a> <a href="/psalms/118-22.htm">Building</a> <a href="/job/27-18.htm">Builds</a> <a href="/psalms/122-3.htm">City</a> <a href="/psalms/126-1.htm">Degrees</a> <a href="/psalms/18-31.htm">Except</a> <a href="/psalms/121-8.htm">Guard</a> <a href="/psalms/97-10.htm">Guards</a> <a href="/psalms/22-1.htm">Helping</a> <a href="/psalms/122-9.htm">House</a> <a href="/psalms/121-5.htm">Keeper</a> <a href="/psalms/125-1.htm">Keeps</a> <a href="/psalms/109-11.htm">Labor</a> <a href="/psalms/119-150.htm">Purpose</a> <a href="/psalms/126-6.htm">Solomon</a> <a href="/psalms/72-1.htm">Solomon&Gt</a> <a href="/psalms/126-6.htm">Song</a> <a href="/psalms/122-5.htm">Stand</a> <a href="/psalms/63-8.htm">Stays</a> <a href="/psalms/119-92.htm">Unless</a> <a href="/psalms/119-118.htm">Vain</a> <a href="/psalms/78-65.htm">Waketh</a> <a href="/psalms/121-8.htm">Watch</a> <a href="/psalms/121-5.htm">Watches</a> <a href="/psalms/37-32.htm">Watcheth</a> <a href="/job/27-18.htm">Watchman</a> <a href="/nehemiah/12-39.htm">Watchmen</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/psalms/127-5.htm">Ascents</a> <a href="/psalms/130-2.htm">Awake</a> <a href="/psalms/147-2.htm">Build</a> <a href="/isaiah/49-17.htm">Builders</a> <a href="/psalms/147-2.htm">Building</a> <a href="/psalms/147-2.htm">Builds</a> <a href="/proverbs/1-21.htm">City</a> <a href="/psalms/128-1.htm">Degrees</a> <a href="/proverbs/4-16.htm">Except</a> <a href="/psalms/140-4.htm">Guard</a> <a href="/proverbs/2-8.htm">Guards</a> <a href="/proverbs/11-14.htm">Helping</a> <a href="/psalms/128-3.htm">House</a> <a href="/psalms/144-2.htm">Keeper</a> <a href="/psalms/145-20.htm">Keeps</a> <a href="/psalms/128-2.htm">Labor</a> <a href="/psalms/138-8.htm">Purpose</a> <a href="/proverbs/1-1.htm">Solomon</a> <a href="/psalms/72-1.htm">Solomon&Gt</a> <a href="/psalms/127-5.htm">Song</a> <a href="/psalms/130-3.htm">Stand</a> <a href="/proverbs/22-5.htm">Stays</a> <a href="/proverbs/4-16.htm">Unless</a> <a href="/psalms/127-2.htm">Vain</a> <a href="/songs/5-2.htm">Waketh</a> <a href="/psalms/130-6.htm">Watch</a> <a href="/psalms/145-20.htm">Watches</a> <a href="/proverbs/6-22.htm">Watcheth</a> <a href="/isaiah/21-6.htm">Watchman</a> <a href="/psalms/130-6.htm">Watchmen</a><div class="vheading2">Psalm 127</div>1. <a href="/psalms/127-1.htm">The virtue of God's blessing</a> 3. <a href="/psalms/127-3.htm">Good children are his gift</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; 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This phrase indicates that <a href="/psalms/127.htm">Psalm 127</a> is part of the Songs of Ascents, a collection of Psalms (120-134) traditionally sung by Hebrew pilgrims as they ascended to Jerusalem for the three major feasts. The ascent is both physical, as Jerusalem is situated on a hill, and spiritual, symbolizing drawing closer to God. These songs emphasize themes of trust, worship, and reliance on God.Of Solomon. Attributed to Solomon, this Psalm reflects his wisdom and understanding of human endeavors' futility without divine blessing. Solomon, known for building the Temple in Jerusalem, underscores the importance of God's involvement in human projects. His reign was marked by peace and prosperity, yet he recognized that true success comes from God.Unless the LORD builds the house, This phrase highlights the necessity of divine involvement in human efforts. The "house" can symbolize a physical dwelling, a family lineage, or even the Temple. In biblical context, the house of David is a significant theme, with God's promise to establish David's lineage (<a href="/2_samuel/7-11.htm">2 Samuel 7:11-16</a>). Theologically, it points to the futility of human efforts without God's blessing.its builders labor in vain; The futility of human effort without God's blessing is emphasized here. This echoes the wisdom literature theme found in Ecclesiastes, where Solomon reflects on the vanity of human toil. It serves as a reminder that human endeavors, no matter how well-intentioned, are ultimately fruitless without God's guidance and blessing.unless the LORD protects the city, This phrase underscores the need for divine protection over human security measures. In ancient times, cities were fortified with walls and watchmen, yet true safety was believed to come from God. This reflects the biblical theme of God as a protector, as seen in Psalms 46:1 and 121:3-4, where God is depicted as a refuge and guardian.its watchmen stand guard in vain. The role of watchmen was crucial in ancient cities for protection against enemies. However, this phrase emphasizes that vigilance and human efforts are insufficient without God's protection. It aligns with the biblical principle that ultimate security and peace come from God, as seen in <a href="/proverbs/21-31.htm">Proverbs 21:31</a>, which states that safety is of the LORD.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/t/the_lord.htm">The LORD (Yahweh)</a> The covenant name of God, emphasizing His sovereignty and active involvement in the lives of His people. 2. <a href="/topical/b/builders.htm">Builders</a> Represents those who undertake projects or endeavors, symbolizing human effort and initiative. 3. <a href="/topical/h/house.htm">House</a> Can be understood as a literal dwelling, a family, or any endeavor or project undertaken by individuals or communities. 4. <a href="/topical/c/city.htm">City</a> Represents a community or society, highlighting the need for divine protection and oversight. 5. <a href="/topical/g/guards.htm">Guards</a> Symbolizes those who provide protection and security, emphasizing human responsibility in safeguarding what is valuable.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/d/dependence_on_god.htm">Dependence on God</a> Human efforts are ultimately futile without God's blessing and involvement. We must seek His guidance and rely on His strength in all our endeavors. <a href="/topical/d/divine_protection.htm">Divine Protection</a> While human responsibility is important, true security and protection come from the LORD. We should trust in His sovereignty over our lives and communities. <a href="/topical/p/partnership_with_god.htm">Partnership with God</a> Our work and efforts should be in partnership with God, aligning our goals with His purposes and seeking His wisdom in decision-making. <a href="/topical/f/foundation_of_faith.htm">Foundation of Faith</a> Building our lives on the foundation of God's word ensures stability and success, both spiritually and practically. <a href="/topical/p/prayerful_planning.htm">Prayerful Planning</a> Before undertaking any project or responsibility, we should commit our plans to the LORD, seeking His will and blessing.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_psalm_127.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Psalm 127</a> <a href="/q/is_there_evidence_solomon_wrote_psalm_127.htm">(Psalm 127) Given the psalm’s traditional attribution to Solomon, is there historical or linguistic evidence confirming this authorship, or does the lack of clarity weaken its authority?</a> <a href="/q/who_builds_the_house_if_not_the_lord.htm">Who builds the house if not the Lord?</a> <a href="/q/why_do_human_efforts_succeed_without_god.htm">(Psalm 127:1) If a house can only stand with God’s help, why do we see so many successful endeavors achieved by purely human effort? </a> <a href="/q/what_does_'faith_is_hope's_substance'_mean.htm">Who builds the house if not the Lord?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/psalms/127.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(1) House.--A house, any house, not the Temple. The thought is a general one. Even in the common labours of men, it is the Divine blessing which contributes the success. An Gottes Segen ist alles gelegen.Waketh.--Perhaps better, watcheth. The house that has been built with such toil, the city which has been planned with such skill, may suddenly fall before the midnight attack of the robber or the enemy, in spite of the strictest police, unless God's vigilant providence preserve it.<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/psalms/127.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 1. - Except the Lord build the house; rather, a house; i.e. any house whatsoever. They labor in vain that build it. They will effect nothing - no house will be built. Except the Lord keep the city; rather, a city. The watchman waketh but in vain. Human watching is of no use unless accompanied by Divine watching. <a href="/commentaries/psalms/127-1.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Hebrew</div>A Song שִׁ֥יר (šîr) Noun - masculine singular construct <a href="/hebrew/strongs_7892.htm">Strong's 7892: </a> A song, singing of Ascents. הַֽמַּֽעֲל֗וֹת (ham·ma·‘ă·lō·wṯ) Article | Noun - feminine plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_4609.htm">Strong's 4609: </a> Elevation, the act, the condition, a climactic progression Of Solomon. לִשְׁלֹ֫מֹ֥ה (liš·lō·mōh) Preposition-l | Noun - proper - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_8010.htm">Strong's 8010: </a> Solomon -- David's son and successor to his throne Unless אִם־ (’im-) Conjunction <a href="/hebrew/strongs_518.htm">Strong's 518: </a> Lo!, whether?, if, although, Oh that!, when, not the LORD יְהוָ֤ה ׀ (Yah·weh) Noun - proper - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3068.htm">Strong's 3068: </a> LORD -- the proper name of the God of Israel builds יִבְנֶ֬ה (yiḇ·neh) Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1129.htm">Strong's 1129: </a> To build the house, בַ֗יִת (ḇa·yiṯ) Noun - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1004.htm">Strong's 1004: </a> A house its builders בוֹנָ֣יו (ḇō·w·nāw) Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine plural construct | third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_1129.htm">Strong's 1129: </a> To build labor עָמְל֣וּ (‘ā·mə·lū) Verb - Qal - Perfect - third person common plural <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5998.htm">Strong's 5998: </a> To toil, work severely and with irksomeness in בּ֑וֹ (bōw) Preposition | third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/.htm">Strong's Hebrew</a> vain; שָׁ֤וְא ׀ (šāw) Noun - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_7723.htm">Strong's 7723: </a> Evil, idolatry, uselessness unless אִם־ (’im-) Conjunction <a href="/hebrew/strongs_518.htm">Strong's 518: </a> Lo!, whether?, if, although, Oh that!, when, not the LORD יְהוָ֥ה (Yah·weh) Noun - proper - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_3068.htm">Strong's 3068: </a> LORD -- the proper name of the God of Israel protects יִשְׁמָר־ (yiš·mār-) Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_8104.htm">Strong's 8104: </a> To hedge about, guard, to protect, attend to the city, עִ֝֗יר (‘îr) Noun - feminine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_5892.htm">Strong's 5892: </a> Excitement its watchmen שׁוֹמֵֽר׃ (šō·w·mêr) Verb - Qal - Participle - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_8104.htm">Strong's 8104: </a> To hedge about, guard, to protect, attend to stand guard שָׁקַ֬ד (šā·qaḏ) Verb - Qal - Perfect - third person masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_8245.htm">Strong's 8245: </a> To be alert, sleepless, to be on the lookout in vain. שָׁ֤וְא ׀ (šāw) Noun - masculine singular <a href="/hebrew/strongs_7723.htm">Strong's 7723: </a> Evil, idolatry, uselessness <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/psalms/127-1.htm">Psalm 127:1 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/psalms/127-1.htm">Psalm 127:1 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/psalms/127-1.htm">Psalm 127:1 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/psalms/127-1.htm">Psalm 127:1 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/psalms/127-1.htm">Psalm 127:1 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/psalms/127-1.htm">Psalm 127:1 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/psalms/127-1.htm">Psalm 127:1 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/psalms/127-1.htm">Psalm 127:1 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/psalms/127-1.htm">Psalm 127:1 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/psalms/127-1.htm">Psalm 127:1 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/psalms/127-1.htm">OT Poetry: Psalm 127:1 A Song of Ascents (Psalm Ps Psa.) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/psalms/126-6.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Psalm 126:6"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Psalm 126:6" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/psalms/127-2.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Psalm 127:2"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Psalm 127:2" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>