King James Version
Psalms 127:2 in the King James Version says “It is vain for you to rise up early, to sit up late, to eat the bread of sorrows: for so he giveth his beloved sleep.” — study this verse from Psalms chapter 127 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“It is vain for you to rise up early, to sit up late, to eat the bread of sorrows: for so he giveth his beloved sleep.”
Psalms 127:2 · KJV
A Song of degrees for Solomon. Except the LORD build the house, they labour in vain that build it: except the LORD keep the city, the watchman waketh but in vain. for: or, of Solomon that: Heb. that are builders of it in it
It is vain for you to rise up early, to sit up late, to eat the bread of sorrows: for so he giveth his beloved sleep.
Lo, children are an heritage of the LORD: and the fruit of the womb is his reward.
As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man; so are children of the youth.
KJV Study — Public Domain
“It is vain”
H7723evil (as destructive), literally (ruin) or morally (especially guile); figuratively idolatry (as false, subjective), uselessness (as deceptive, object
“early”
H7925literally, to load up (on the back of man or beast), i.e., to start early in the morning
“for you to rise up”
H6965to rise (in various applications, literal, figurative, intensive and causative)
“to sit up”
H3427properly, to sit down (specifically as judge. in ambush, in quiet); by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle, to marry
“of sorrows”
H6089an earthen vessel; usually (painful) toil; also a pang (whether of body or mind)
properly, set upright; hence (figuratively as adjective) just; but usually (as adverb or conjunction) rightly or so (in various applications to manner
“for so he giveth”
H5414to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
This verse is found in the book of Psalms. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Psalms 127:2 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to Psalms 127:2 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge