# For the scripture says

This is personification that means that this is what someone has written in the scriptures. Alternate translation: "For we read in the scriptures that" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])

# You shall not put a muzzle on an ox while it treads the grain

Paul is using this quotation as a metaphor meaning that church leaders deserve to receive payment from the Christian community for their work. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

# muzzle

a sleeve that goes over an animal's snout and mouth to prevent it from eating while it is doing work (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

# treads the grain

And ox "treads the grain" when it walks on or pulls a heavy object over the cut grain to separate the grain from the stalks. The ox was allowed to eat some of the grain as they worked.

# is worthy of

"deserves"