### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼâkaph**, represented by `{{H404}}`, is a primitive root with the meaning **to urge** or **crave**. It appears only **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible. Its singular use provides a focused insight into the compelling nature of physical need as a motivation for labor, as if one is curved under the burden of their own appetite.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{H404}}` is in [[Proverbs 16:26]], which states that a laborer works for himself because his mouth "craveth it of him." In this context, **ʼâkaph** describes the powerful, urging demand of one's own appetite. The verse illustrates a fundamental principle of wisdom literature: that the necessity of satisfying one's own hunger acts as a persistent and compelling motivation to work.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words found in its only context illuminate the meaning of `{{H404}}`:
* `{{H5315}}` **nephesh** (a breathing creature... appetite... desire... soul): This term, translated as "He" in [[Proverbs 16:26]], refers to the person or **soul** who labors. It encompasses the entirety of a living being's desires and vital needs, which must be satisfied [[Isaiah 58:11]].
* `{{H6001}}` **ʻâmêl** (toiling; concretely, a laborer): This word identifies the subject of [[Proverbs 16:26]] as **a laborer**. It points to the one who experiences the toil of work and is driven by the craving described by `{{H404}}`.
* `{{H5998}}` **ʻâmal** (to toil, i.e. work severely and with irksomeness): This verb describes the action of the laborer, to **toil** or work hard. The craving (`ʼâkaph`) is what compels a person to engage in this toil [[Proverbs 16:26]].
* `{{H6310}}` **peh** (the mouth... speech... portion): In its only context, `{{H404}}` is directly linked to the **mouth**, which personifies the physical appetite that urges the laborer to work [[Proverbs 16:26]]. The mouth is also seen as the source of God's life-giving word [[Deuteronomy 8:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H404}}` is demonstrated in its single appearance.
* **Motivation for Labor:** The craving of the mouth (`'âkaph`) is presented as a primary, built-in driver for human work. It frames labor as a necessary and direct response to the fundamental needs of the self [[Proverbs 16:26]].
* **The Physical Urge:** The verse shows the `nephesh` (soul) of the laborer being driven by the `peh` (mouth). This highlights the powerful connection between physical needs and the will to act, where bodily appetite urges the whole person into action.
* **Principle of Self-Sustenance:** The statement that the laborer "laboureth for himself" [[Proverbs 16:26]] underscores a theological principle of personal responsibility. The internal drive to satisfy one's own needs is a fundamental aspect of the human condition.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H404}}` is a rare but potent word meaning "to crave" or "urge." Its only use in [[Proverbs 16:26]] powerfully illustrates how basic physical needs, personified by the "mouth," compel a person to labor. It highlights a core wisdom principle: that work is intrinsically linked to satisfying the self. Despite its single appearance, **ʼâkaph** provides a clear and memorable depiction of the relationship between human appetite and productive effort.
TRV