1A song of the steps to Solomon. If the LORD does not build the house, the builders toil in it in vain. If the LORD does not keep the city, the keeper watches in vain.2It is vain for you who rise early and delay dwelling and eat the bread of toil; therefore he gives sleep to his beloved.3Behold, the inheritance of the LORD consists of sons; the wages consist of the fruit of the womb.4Like arrows in the hand of a mighty man, so are the sons of youth.5Blessed is the great man who fills his quiver from them; they will not be ashamed, for they will speak with enemies in the gate.