works for him
The phrase "works for him" suggests that the appetite or desire acts as a driving force, almost like an internal engine that propels the worker forward. The Hebrew verb "עָשָׂה" (asah) means "to do" or "to make," indicating that the appetite actively contributes to the worker's efforts. In a broader scriptural context, this aligns with the biblical principle that God has ordained work as a means of provision and fulfillment. The appetite, therefore, is not a passive longing but an active participant in the worker's journey, emphasizing the partnership between human effort and divine provision.

because his hunger
"Hunger" in Hebrew is "רָעָב" (ra'av), which denotes a strong desire or craving, often associated with physical need. In the ancient world, hunger was a powerful motivator, driving individuals to seek food and sustenance. This concept is deeply rooted in the biblical narrative, where hunger often leads to significant actions and decisions, such as the Israelites' journey through the wilderness. Theologically, hunger can be seen as a metaphor for spiritual longing, a reminder of humanity's dependence on God for both physical and spiritual nourishment.

drives him onward
The phrase "drives him onward" uses the Hebrew verb "דָּחַף" (dachaph), meaning "to push" or "to thrust." This conveys a sense of urgency and compulsion, illustrating how hunger propels the worker to continue striving and laboring. In the historical context of Proverbs, this driving force would have been essential for survival and prosperity in an agrarian society. Spiritually, this can be interpreted as the divine impetus that encourages believers to pursue their God-given purposes with diligence and perseverance. It underscores the biblical theme that God uses our natural desires to guide us toward His will and provision.

"Largitor artium, ingeniique magister Venter."

"The belly is the teacher of all arts,
The parent of invention." De tout s'avise a qui pain faut, "He who wants bread thinks of everything." There is our own homely saw, "Need makes the old wife trot;" as the Italians say, "Hunger sets the dog a-hunting" (Kelly). For his mouth craveth it of him; his mouth must have food to put in it. The verb אָכַפ (akaph) does not occur elsewhere; it means properly "to bend," and then to put a load on, to constrain to press. So here, "His mouth bends over him, i.e. urgeth him thereto" (Revised Version). Ecclesiastes 6:7, "All labour of man is for his mouth;" we should say stomach. Hunger in some sense is the great stimulus of all work. "We commanded you," says St. Paul (2 Thessalonians 3:10), "that if any would not work, neither should he eat." There is a spiritual hunger without which grace cannot be sought or obtained - that hungering and thirsting after righteousness of which Christ speaks, and which he who is the Bread of life is ready to satisfy (Matthew 5:6; John 6:58). The Septuagint expands the maxim: "A man in labours labours for himself, and drives away (ἐκβιάζεται) his own destruction; but the perverse man upon his own mouth carrieth destruction."

Parallel Commentaries ...