You Must not Muzzle an Ox to Keep it From Eating as it Treads out The Grain.. Deu25

Oxen were often used to tread out the grain on a threshing floor. The animal was attached by poles to a large millstone. As it walked around the millstone, its hooves trampled the grain, separating the kernels from the chaff. At the same time, the millstone groung the grain into flour.

To muzzle the ox would prevent it from eating while it was working. Paul used this illustration in the new Testament to argue that people productive in Christian work should not be denied its benefits--they should receive financial support. (1Cor9 / 1Tim5)

The fact that a person is in Christian ministry doesnt mean he or she should be unfairly paid. There is also a broader application; dont be stingy with those who workfor you.