Psalms 127:1

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.

Study Helps

Interpretation

This verse speaks in the wider setting of prayer and praise as Psalms unfolds its message.

City People: The earliest mention of city-building is that of Enoch, which was built by Cain ( Gen. 4:17 ). After the confusion of tongues, the descendants of Nimrod founded several cities (10:10-12).
Jerusalem Place: Biblical settlement. Modern identification: Jerusalem.