Bible Commentaries
Psalms 127

Verse 1

Canticle. Being a sequel to the former [psalm], (Calmet) and similar to the 111th, as both promise felicity to the captives at their return, if they prove faithful, 2 Esdras ix. 38. (Ferrand.) --- It is a sort of epithalamium. (Moller.) --- Both temporal and spiritual blessings are set before us. (Berthier) --- Ways. Many saints have not received temporal rewards; and this confirms our faith that there is a world to come. (Calmet) --- In effect, no temporal advantages are here specified, as they are below. (Berthier)

Verse 2

Hands. The idle are not entitled to blessings, which God will bestow on the industrious who fear him, preserving them from evils, Leviticus xxvi. 16., and Deuteronomy xxviii. 30. (Calmet) (2 Corinthians iii. 10.) --- Some have explained Greek: karpon, "fruits:" though it here means hands. (Berthier)

Verse 3

Sides. Against which vines were planted. (Calmet) --- The married people who fear God, shall commonly have a numerous posterity; or their souls shall produce many good works in the Church, which springs from our Saviour’s side. Children denote such good works. (Worthington) --- Plants. Psalm cxliii. 12. (Homer, Odyssey vi. 163.)

Verse 5

PSALM CXXVII. (BEATI OMNES.)

The fear of God is the way to happiness.

Sion. Where he displayed his bounty. (Calmet) --- Jerusalem. In heaven, 1 Corinthians xv. 19. (Berthier) --- Mayst thou live happily in the holy city, after thy long captivity. (Calmet)

Verse 6

Israel. This is best secured by a well-regulated and numerous people. (Berthier) --- The good works, performed on earth, will be rewarded in heaven. (Worthington) --- We shall rejoice in the spiritual children, whom we shall have begotten. (Menochius)