Proverbs 16:26

¶ He that laboureth laboureth for himself; for his mouth craveth it of him.

He {H5315} that laboureth {H6001} laboureth {H5998} for himself; for his mouth {H6310} craveth {H404} it of him.

A working man's appetite acts on his behalf, because his hunger presses him on.

A worker’s appetite works for him because his hunger drives him onward.

The appetite of the laboring man laboreth for him; For his mouth urgeth him thereto.

Commentary

Context

Proverbs 16:26 is part of a larger section in the Book of Proverbs that offers practical wisdom for daily life, often contrasting diligent behavior with laziness, and highlighting the outcomes of human effort. This particular verse focuses on the fundamental motivation behind human labor. The Proverbs generally teach that hard work leads to provision and success, while idleness leads to poverty and want. This verse, therefore, underpins the practical necessity of diligence by pointing to an innate human drive.

Key Themes

  • Inherent Motivation for Labor: The verse succinctly states that a person's labor is primarily driven by their own needs. It emphasizes a fundamental, almost instinctual, motivation for work.
  • Self-Preservation and Sustenance: The phrase "for his mouth craveth it of him" powerfully illustrates that the most basic human need—hunger and the need for food—is a primary engine for work. It highlights the direct link between effort and survival.
  • Natural Consequence of Diligence: While not explicitly stating "work hard," the proverb implies that understanding this internal drive should naturally lead to diligence. One works because one *must* eat, and the fruit of that labor directly benefits the laborer. This concept is echoed elsewhere in Scripture, such as in 2 Thessalonians 3:10, which states, "if any would not work, neither should he eat."

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word translated "laboureth" is 'amel (עָמֵל), which signifies toil, hard work, or burdensome labor. It implies effort that is not always easy but is necessary. The phrase "his mouth craveth it of him" uses the Hebrew word 'avah (אָוָה) for "craveth," which means to desire, long for, or crave. Here, it vividly depicts an internal, urgent demand, a deep-seated craving, particularly for food. This imagery makes the motivation for work very personal and immediate, stemming from a physical necessity.

Practical Application

Proverbs 16:26 offers a timeless insight into human nature and the dignity of labor. It reminds us that:

  • Work is Essential: It affirms that work is a natural and necessary part of human existence, driven by fundamental needs. This perspective can help combat idleness by rooting the value of work in self-preservation.
  • Personal Responsibility: The verse places the responsibility for sustenance squarely on the individual. One works for oneself, and the direct benefit of that labor is personal provision.
  • Understanding Motivation: For those struggling with motivation or seeking to encourage others, this proverb points to the powerful, intrinsic drive of meeting basic needs. It suggests that recognizing our needs can be a powerful catalyst for productive effort.
  • God's Design: While focusing on human motivation, this proverb implicitly reflects God's wise design in linking human effort with the provision of needs. It is part of the broader biblical teaching that by the sweat of one's brow, one will eat bread, a principle established from the beginning.
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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Ecclesiastes 6:7

    ¶ All the labour of man [is] for his mouth, and yet the appetite is not filled.

  • Proverbs 9:12

    If thou be wise, thou shalt be wise for thyself: but [if] thou scornest, thou alone shalt bear [it].

  • Proverbs 14:23

    ¶ In all labour there is profit: but the talk of the lips [tendeth] only to penury.

  • 2 Thessalonians 3:8

    Neither did we eat any man's bread for nought; but wrought with labour and travail night and day, that we might not be chargeable to any of you:

  • 2 Thessalonians 3:12

    Now them that are such we command and exhort by our Lord Jesus Christ, that with quietness they work, and eat their own bread.

  • 1 Thessalonians 4:11

    And that ye study to be quiet, and to do your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you;

  • 1 Thessalonians 4:12

    That ye may walk honestly toward them that are without, and [that] ye may have lack of nothing.
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