This saying asserts that the servant who looks after his master will receive praise, just as surely as the gardener who looks after a fig tree will eat its figs.

“He who tends a fig tree will eat its fruit”: “Tends” means “takes care of” or “cultivates.” If the “fig tree” is unknown, a local fruit tree that requires tending may be used. If there is no suitable local tree, a general term such as “a tree that bears fruit” may be satisfactory. This line is used as a comparison for the main thought in the second line.

“And he who guards his master will be honored”: “Guards” renders a word meaning to “take care of,” “protect,” or “watch over.” “His master” refers to the owner, employer, or person who has a servant. In some languages this person is called a “boss man.” “Be honored” means to receive praise, respect, or esteem.

A good model for the translation of this verse is: “Workers who tend a fig tree are allowed to eat its fruit. In the same way, workers who protect their employer’s interests will be rewarded.”

Quoted with permission from Reyburn, William D. and Fry, Euan McG. A Handbook on Proverbs. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 2000. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .