United Commentaries

Ps.120.1-134.3

These short, appealing songs were sung during pilgrims’ journeys to Jerusalem for the national festivals three times per year (Deut 16:16). The title of these psalms includes the Hebrew word for stairs, which some take to mean “ascending to Jerusalem.” These psalms (sometimes called the Songs of Ascents) take the reader on a pilgrimage to Jerusalem to praise God for his goodness to Israel throughout history.

Ps.127.1-5

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).

Ps.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).

Ps.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.

Ps.127.4-5

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