Psalm 127. Nisi Dominus.

1. Unless the Lord builds the house, *
   their labor is in vain who build it.
2. Unless the Lord watches over the city, *
   in vain the watchman keeps his vigil.
3. It is in vain that you rise so early and go to bed so late; *
   vain, too, to eat the bread of toil, for he gives to his beloved sleep.
4. Children are a heritage from the Lord, *
   and the fruit of the womb is a gift.
5. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior *
   are the children of one's youth.
6. Happy is the man who has his quiver full of them! *
   he shall not be put to shame when he contends with his enemies in the gate.