Psalms 127

Ps 127 Blessing and protection come from God. Without his presence, there is no success (127:1-2). This is particularly true for children, who are God’s gift (127:3-5).127:1-2 Unless: These conditional sentences emphasize the positive idea that the Lord will protect the city (cp. 124:1-2). • Human effort is futile unless the Lord blesses it (see 44:3). • from early morning until late at night: This depicts an aggressive and competitive lifestyle. • God’s loved ones enjoy a quiet night’s sleep (3:5; 4:8).

127:3-5 Children are one of God’s blessings. The words translated “children” (Hebrew banim) and “builders” (bonim, 127:1) form a wordplay. Having children builds a family.

127:4-5 like arrows: God uses children to protect the reputation of his people against the wicked (cp. 120:4; 7:12-13).