Psalms 127:3 - Behold, children are a heritage of Yahweh. The fruit of the womb is his reward.

Generated Verse: Psalms 127:3

What does "Psalms 127:3" mean?


Psalm 127:3 is a powerful and concise statement about the value and source of children in a believer's life. Let's break down each phrase:

"Behold," This word is an attention-getter, like saying "Look!" or "Pay attention to this important truth!"

"children are a heritage of Yahweh"
"Children": The focus here is on offspring, sons and daughters.
"Heritage" (or "inheritance"): This word (Hebrew: nachalah) implies something valuable, a gift, and something passed down from one generation to the next. The idea is that children are not merely the result of human effort but a gracious gift from God. It speaks of responsibility, legacy, and continuity.
"Yahweh": This is God's covenant name, emphasizing His faithfulness and relationship with His people. So, children are a heritage from Yahweh; they are His gift.

"The fruit of the womb is his reward"
"Fruit of the womb": This is a common Hebrew idiom referring to children, specifically those born from a mother's womb.
"Reward" (or "recompense," "requital"): The Hebrew word (sakar) often signifies a payment or compensation for labor or service. In this context, however, it's understood as a blessing or gift that God bestows upon those who are in relationship with Him. It highlights that children are a positive blessing and a source of joy and fulfillment.
"His reward": This can be interpreted in a couple of ways:
God's reward to parents: The children are a reward given by God to the parents.
The reward that belongs to God: The children themselves are a kind of reward for God, in the sense that they are a manifestation of His creative power and the continuation of His purposes on earth.

In summary, Psalm 127:3 communicates the following key ideas:

Children are a blessing: They are not merely accidental occurrences but a valuable and desired gift from God.
God is the source of children: Children are seen as a direct result of God's graciousness and creative power.
Children are an inheritance: They are a valuable heritage, representing continuity, legacy, and responsibility.
Children are a reward: They are a source of joy, fulfillment, and a sign of God's favor.

Theological Implications:

Procreation is a blessing: The verse affirms the goodness of procreation within the context of marriage.
The value of children: It emphasizes the inherent worth and importance of children in God's eyes.
Parental responsibility: Implied within the concept of children as a "heritage" is the responsibility of parents to raise them in accordance with God's ways.
Trust in God: The psalm as a whole encourages trust in God for all things, including the blessing of children and the success of one's endeavors.

In conclusion, Psalm 127:3 is a beautiful and profound affirmation of the blessing of children, emphasizing their divine origin and inherent value. It reminds us to view children as a precious gift from God, deserving of our love, care, and guidance.

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