Proverbs 14:4

Amharic 2000 (የአማርኛ መጽሐፍ ቅዱስ (ሰማንያ አሃዱ))

በሬዎች በሌሉበት ስፍራ በረቱ ንጹሕ ነው፤ ብዙ እህል ግን በበሬዎች ኀይል ይገኛል።

What Does This Mean?

This verse from Proverbs tells us that without oxen, the stable is clean, but the oxen’s strength brings much increase. The speaker is the wise author of Proverbs. The key message is that hard work and effort, represented by the oxen, lead to prosperity.

Explained for Children

Imagine you have a toy barn and toy cows. If you don’t have cows, your barn is very clean, but if you have cows, you can grow a lot of food and have more toys. Just like the cows help make more food, working hard helps you get more things you need.

Historical Background

Proverbs was written by King Solomon, around 950 BC. It was aimed at the general audience of ancient Israel, where oxen were crucial for agriculture. The text reflects the agricultural society and the importance of hard work and livestock.

Living It Out Today

In modern times, this verse can remind us that without effort, things may be easier but less productive. For example, if you don’t study hard, your room is clean and free of books, but studying hard leads to better grades and more opportunities.

Topics

• wisdom
• agriculture
• prosperity
• hard work
• livestock
• increase

Related Verses

• Proverbs 12:11
• Ecclesiastes 3:11
• 1 Corinthians 9:9
• Psalm 78:48
• Isaiah 30:24

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 'crib' mean in this context?

In this context, 'crib' refers to the feeding place for animals, like a stable or barn where oxen would be kept and fed.

How does this relate to today's work ethic?

This verse emphasizes the importance of hard work, which is just as relevant today. Without effort and dedication, one may not achieve success or prosperity.

Can you give an example of how this verse applies in a non-agricultural context?

Certainly! In a business context, the verse could mean that without the hard work and effort of employees (like the oxen), a company may have a clean and orderly office but no growth or success.

Why are oxen significant in the Bible?

Oxen were crucial for plowing and hauling heavy loads, making them important in the agricultural society described in the Bible. They symbolize strength and labor.