### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **yᵉgîyaʻ**, represented by `{{H3018}}`, refers to **toil** and its results, such as a **work**, **produce**, or **property**. It is derived from a root meaning to toil and appears **16 times** across **16 unique verses**. The term specifically denotes the tangible outcome of effort, whether it be personal assets, agricultural yield, or the wealth of a nation.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H3018}}` is used to illustrate the consequences of one's actions and relationship with God. In a context of blessing, a person is promised they will "eat the **labour** of thine hands" [[Psalms 128:2]], showing the righteous enjoyment of one's work. Conversely, as a curse, the "labours" of Israel would be consumed by foreign nations [[Deuteronomy 28:33]]. The word often signifies a nation's collective assets, which can be delivered to enemies as judgment [[Jeremiah 20:5]]. It is also used to highlight futility, questioning why one would spend their **labour** on what fails to satisfy instead of hearkening to the LORD `{{H3068}}` [[Isaiah 55:2]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning and context of **yᵉgîyaʻ**:
* `{{H6529}}` **pᵉrîy** (fruit): This word for produce is often used in parallel with `{{H3018}}`, as seen when the "**fruit** of thy land, and all thy **labours**" are taken as a sign of a curse [[Deuteronomy 28:33]].
* `{{H3709}}` **kaph** (hand): This term connects the result of labor directly to its source. The concept of enjoying the "labour of thine **hands**" is a recurring theme, linking physical effort to its reward or consequence ([[Genesis 31:42]], [[Psalms 128:2]]).
* `{{H398}}` **ʼâkal** (to eat): This verb is frequently paired with `{{H3018}}` to show who benefits from labor. The blessed **eat** the produce of their work, while the cursed have their labor **devoured** by others ([[Deuteronomy 28:33]], [[Psalms 128:2]], [[Jeremiah 3:24]]).
* `{{H2633}}` **chôçen** (wealth): In prophecies of judgment, **labours** are listed alongside other assets like "**strength**," "**precious things**," and "**treasures**," identifying toil as a primary component of a city's wealth [[Jeremiah 20:5]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H3018}}` revolves around themes of divine justice, blessing, and judgment.
* **A Measure of Blessing and Cursing:** The ability to enjoy the fruits of one's **labour** is a direct sign of God's favor [[Psalms 128:2]]. In contrast, the loss of this labor to invaders [[Psalms 109:11]], pests [[Psalms 78:46]], or drought [[Haggai 1:11]] is presented as a consequence of disobedience.
* **Vulnerability and Divine Oversight:** God is portrayed as one who sees the "affliction and the **labour** of my hands" and issues a rebuke `{{H3198}}` on behalf of the wronged [[Genesis 31:42]]. However, one can also question if God despises the "work of thine hands" when experiencing oppression [[Job 10:3]].
* **The Consequence of Sin:** The results of generations of toil can be undone by sin. In Jeremiah, "**shame**" `{{H1322}}`, representing idolatry, is said to have "devoured the **labour** of our fathers" [[Jeremiah 3:24]].
* **Material vs. Spiritual Value:** Isaiah draws a sharp contrast between physical **labour** for things that do not satisfy and the spiritual act of hearkening `{{H8085}}` to the LORD `{{H3068}}`, which brings true delight and sustenance [[Isaiah 55:2]].
### Summary
In summary, **yᵉgîyaʻ** `{{H3018}}` is more than just physical work; it represents the tangible, often vulnerable, product of that effort. It serves as a biblical barometer for the state of one's relationship with God. When enjoyed, it is a sign of blessing and right living. When it is lost, futile, or consumed by others, it stands as a stark indicator of judgment and sin. The term powerfully illustrates that the ultimate value of human labor is determined not by the effort expended, but by the divine favor under which it is performed.
TRV