Proverbs 16:26
He that laboureth laboureth for himself; for his mouth craveth it of him.
Original Language Analysis
נֶ֣פֶשׁ
He
H5315
נֶ֣פֶשׁ
He
Strong's:
H5315
Word #:
1 of 8
properly, a breathing creature, i.e., animal of (abstractly) vitality; used very widely in a literal, accommodated or figurative sense (bodily or ment
עָ֭מֵל
that laboureth
H6001
עָ֭מֵל
that laboureth
Strong's:
H6001
Word #:
2 of 8
toiling; concretely, a laborer; figuratively, sorrowful
כִּֽי
H3588
כִּֽי
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
5 of 8
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
Cross References
Historical Context
Ancient agricultural societies required everyone's labor for survival. Hunger motivated work—if you didn't labor, you didn't eat. This proverb reflected economic reality while affirming work's dignity. Mosaic Law protected workers' rights (Leviticus 19:13, Deuteronomy 24:14-15). Post-exilic Israelites rebuilt Jerusalem motivated partly by need for shelter and sustenance. Paul worked tent-making to support ministry (Acts 18:3, 1 Thessalonians 2:9).
Questions for Reflection
- How does recognizing that work benefits yourself primarily help you embrace rather than resent labor?
- In what ways does natural hunger (physical, financial) motivate you toward productive work rather than entitled laziness?
- How should Christians balance self-interested work motivation with serving others and glorifying God (Colossians 3:23-24)?
Analysis & Commentary
He that laboureth laboureth for himself; for his mouth craveth it of him. Nefesh amel amelah lo (נֶפֶשׁ עָמֵל עָמְלָה לוֹ, the soul of a laborer labors for him). The laborer works for his own benefit. Ki-achaf alav pihu (כִּי־אָכַף עָלָיו פִּיהוּ, for his mouth urges him on). Hunger motivates work. This proverb celebrates work's self-interested motivation while acknowledging natural incentives drive productivity. Paul taught: "If any would not work, neither should he eat" (2 Thessalonians 3:10). Natural hunger motivates honest labor, preventing idleness.