Psalm 127:4

Children Are a Heritage from the LORD · Psalm 127:1–5
Read Psalm 127

Translations

Modern
Like arrows in the hand of a warrior, so are children born in one’s youth.
Traditional
As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man; so are children of the youth.
Literal
Like arrows in the hand of a mighty one, so are the sons of one’s youth.
Latin
Sicut sagittæ in manu potentis, ita filii excussorum.

Original

Hebrew
English
Like arrows in the hand of a warrior, so are children born in one’s youth.

Notes

Like arrows: The image compares children to arrows in a warrior’s hand. Children strengthen and support the family and help defend its honor when others accuse or oppose them (compare Psalms 120:4; 7:12–13).

Children are one of God’s blessings. In Hebrew, the word for children (banim) sounds like the word for builders (bonim; Psalm 127:1). This wordplay shows that having children helps build a family.

Blessings and protection come from God. Without his presence, success is not possible (Psalm 127:1–2). This is especially true for children, who are gifts from God (Psalm 127:3–5).

These short and memorable songs were sung by pilgrims as they traveled to Jerusalem for the national festivals held three times each year (Deuteronomy 16:16). The title of these psalms includes a Hebrew word that can mean “steps” or “stairs.” Some scholars understand it to mean “going up to Jerusalem.” These psalms, often called the Songs of Ascents, lead the listener on a journey to Jerusalem to praise God for his goodness to Israel through history.

Glossary

Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) Degrees, Song of Education Hallel Music Psalms, Book of Solomon (Person) Song of Ascents Song of Ascents, Song of Degrees Zion

Topics

Adult Children Babies Barren Women Being a Blessing Being a Father Being a Good Father Being a Good Parent Being a Kid Being a Parent Being Unique Blessing: Temporal, from God Child of God Childbearing Children Being a Blessing Children Going to Heaven Children were Named: Numerous, Considered an Especial Blessing Children: A Blessing Dads Faith of a Child Family Relationships Father's Day Fathers Fathers and Children Fathers and Daughters God: Providence of God's Children Grandchildren Having a Baby Having Children Human Life Hurting Children Leading Children Loving your Children Sons The Fetus Unruly Children