¹A song of Solomon of the sundial degree markings.

If the Lord does not build the house,

Those building it toil in vain.

If the Lord does not guard a city,

The guard stands in watch in vain.

²It is in vain that you rise early

And stay up late,

Eating bread of sorrows.

That is why he gives his beloved one sleep.

³Behold, the inheritance of the Lord is sons;

The recompense is the fruit of the womb.

⁴As arrows in the hand of a warrior,

So are the sons of one's youth.

⁵Happy is the man

Who fills his quiver with them.

They will not be ashamed,

For they will speak with the enemies at the gate.