proverb · Words worth keeping
He that reckons without his host must reckon again.
He that reckons without his host must reckon again.
Understand the thought
Meaning in plain English
A plan made without considering a key person or condition may need to be revised. The host image warns against assuming an arrangement is settled before those it depends on have been consulted.
Example
A club announces a workshop date before checking with the person who opens the room, then revises it and confirms access before sending the new invitation.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
The person reckons as though the host’s part does not matter, then must reckon again when the omitted condition becomes clear. In a wider reading, a plan can look complete while leaving out someone’s agreement, capacity or relevant information. The proverb asks the planner to consider what the arrangement actually depends on. It does not require consulting everyone about every small choice, nor does it establish that a later change was avoidable. The useful question identifies which contribution or condition is essential and whether it has been understood before a commitment is made. A revision can then be a correction rather than merely an unwelcome surprise.
When to use it
Use it when a plan has overlooked an essential participant or dependency.
Keep in mind
Consultation should be relevant and proportionate; not every later change can be predicted.
An interpretation of the words, not a claim about their earliest origin.
Attribution & collection notes
- Author or tradition
- Traditional
Attribution: traditional - Country attributed
- Not established
A country attribution does not establish the earliest origin. - Historical period
- Date unknown
- Culture
- English