Proverbs 14:4 Meaning and Explanation
“Where no oxen are, the crib is clean: but much increase is by the strength of the ox.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →No animals mean a clean stable but no harvest; oxen bring work but also abundance.
The Context of Proverbs 14:4
Wisdom often requires accepting responsibility and effort rather than choosing ease.
What Does Proverbs 14:4 Mean?
This verse teaches a practical wisdom about productivity and cost. An empty barn is clean and requires no labor, but it produces nothing. The crib stands empty precisely because there is nothing to manage. This choice—safety through inactivity—appears attractive but yields no increase.
The ox brings labor, mess, and responsibility—but also strength and abundance. Prosperity and growth require investment, effort, and willingness to manage complexity. The verse affirms that meaningful gain always involves some friction and cost.
Frequently Asked Questions About Proverbs 14:4
What does Proverbs 14:4 mean?
No animals mean a clean stable but no harvest; oxen bring work but also abundance.
What is the context of Proverbs 14:4?
Wisdom often requires accepting responsibility and effort rather than choosing ease.