Proverbs 14:23 (KJV)

What does Proverbs 14:23 mean?

Proverbs 14:23 teaches that every kind of hard work brings some kind of benefit, but just talking about work—without actually doing anything—leads only to poverty. The verse draws a clear line between action that produces results and empty words that accomplish nothing.

In the book of Proverbs, these sayings are often presented as wise advice from a teacher or parent to a younger listener, encouraging practical living. Here, the focus is on the real-world outcome: diligent effort is worthwhile, while mere talk, no matter how promising, does not provide for one’s needs and can leave a person lacking.

The Hebrew behind Proverbs 14:23

• The word for "labour" is עִצָּבוֹן (ʿitsavon), which often refers to painful or toilsome work. This highlights that even difficult, tiring effort is valuable and not wasted.
• "Profit" comes from מוֹתָר (motar), meaning gain or advantage. The verse assures that some good comes from any earnest effort, not just from easy or pleasant work.
• "Talk" uses דָּבָר (davar), a general word for speech or words. In this context, it points to empty promises or plans that are not followed by action.
• "Lips" is שָׂפָה (safah), simply meaning the mouth or speech, emphasizing that the problem is not communication itself but talking without follow-through.
• "Penury" is מַחְסוֹר (machsor), meaning lack or poverty. The verse warns that relying on words alone, without real effort, leads to real need.

Why Proverbs 14:23 matters

• Proverbs 14:23 clears up the idea that intentions or plans alone are enough; the verse insists that only actual work brings results.
• The verse emphasizes a practical, down-to-earth wisdom that values effort over idle talk, which is a recurring theme in Proverbs.
• By contrasting "labour" and "talk," the verse connects to the wider passage’s focus on wise versus foolish living, showing that wisdom is seen in what people do, not just what they say.