Old Testament
Psalms 127:5
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Happy is the man who has his quiver full of them; they shall not be ashamed, but shall speak with their enemies in the gate.
Compare translations
Happy is the man that hath his quiver full of them: they shall not be ashamed, but they shall speak with the enemies in the gate.
What Psalms 127:5 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse from Psalms highlights the joy and fulfillment that comes from having a large family, symbolized by a 'quiver' full of arrows. In ancient times, children were seen as a blessing and a source of strength. The verse suggests that a man with many children will not face shame or disgrace, as they will stand strong and defend him, especially in challenging situations, like facing adversaries at the city gate. The 'gate' represents a place of authority and decision-making, where important matters are discussed. Thus, having a supportive family is portrayed as a source of pride and security, enabling one to confront challenges with confidence. This reflects the broader biblical theme of family as a vital part of life and community, emphasizing the importance of relationships and support systems in overcoming life's difficulties.
How to apply Psalms 127:5 to your life
This verse encourages us to value family and relationships, recognizing them as sources of strength and support. It reminds us to invest time and love into our families, fostering connections that can help us face life's challenges together with confidence and pride.
Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

Illustrated scene from Moses's story: Israel Enslaved in Egypt (Exodus 1:8–22)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Moses

Photo: Diego Delso, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. Source. Location: Tell es-Sultan, Jericho, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Jericho
The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Psalms 127:5
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Psalms 127:5
Related Bible verses
At a Glance — the Book of Psalms
- Author
- David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
- Written
- Around 1000-500 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and worship
- Original Audience
- Worshipers of Israel
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Psalms 127:5 mean?
Psalms 127:5 emphasizes the happiness and strength that come from having a large family. It suggests that children are a blessing and provide support, especially in difficult situations.
What is the meaning of 'quiver' in Psalms 127:5?
In Psalms 127:5, 'quiver' refers to a container for arrows, symbolizing a family filled with children. It highlights the idea that having many children is a source of pride and strength.
How does Psalms 127:5 relate to family?
Psalms 127:5 underscores the importance of family as a source of support and strength. It portrays children as blessings that contribute to a person's dignity and ability to face challenges.
What themes are present in Psalms 127:5?
Key themes in Psalms 127:5 include family, blessings, strength, support, and community. The verse highlights the joy of having children and the security they bring in difficult times.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.