Proverbs 14:4

"Where no oxen are, the crib is clean; But much increase is by the strength of the ox."

The things that are most desirable always carry with them certain inconveniences. Rearing a family leads to all kinds of obligations, sacrifices, inconveniences and even sufferings and hardships. There's noise where children are, and there's uncleanness in the stall of the ox. This rendition of the second clause stresses the benefit of having oxen, even along with the dirty crib. "Where there is abundant produce, the strength of the ox is apparent."[4] One can keep a very clean, neat office if he isn't doing anything!