King James Version
Proverbs 14:23 in the King James Version says “In all labour there is profit: but the talk of the lips tendeth only to penury.” — study this verse from Proverbs chapter 14 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“In all labour there is profit: but the talk of the lips tendeth only to penury.”
Proverbs 14:23 · KJV
He that despiseth his neighbour sinneth: but he that hath mercy on the poor , happy is he.
Do they not err that devise evil? but mercy and truth shall be to them that devise good.
In all labour there is profit: but the talk of the lips tendeth only to penury.
The crown of the wise is their riches: but the foolishness of fools is folly.
A true witness delivereth souls: but a deceitful witness speaketh lies.
KJV Study — Public Domain
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
“In all labour”
H6089an earthen vessel; usually (painful) toil; also a pang (whether of body or mind)
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
“but the talk”
H1697a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
“of the lips”
H8193the lip (as a natural boundary); by implication, language; by analogy, a margin (of a vessel, water, cloth, etc.)
This verse is found in the book of Proverbs. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Proverbs 14:23 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to Proverbs 14:23 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge