Proverbs 31

Proverbs 31 begins with King Lemuel's mother's counsel, urging him to avoid destructive women and strong drink, and to uphold justice for the poor and afflicted. The chapter then transitions to a detailed description of a virtuous woman, whose worth is far above rubies. She is characterized by diligence, wisdom, generosity, and a deep commitment to her household and the fear of the Lord, earning her praise from her family and community.

The chapter opens with the prophetic words of King Lemuel's mother, who admonishes her son against giving his strength to women who destroy kings and warns against the consumption of wine and strong drink by rulers, lest they pervert justice. Instead, she advises him to speak for the voiceless and to judge righteously on behalf of the poor and needy. The latter and larger portion of the chapter extols the virtues of an excellent wife, whose value far surpasses precious jewels. She is depicted as a trustworthy, industrious woman who diligently manages her household, provides for her family, and engages in profitable endeavors. Her hands are open to the poor, and her mouth speaks wisdom with kindness. Ultimately, her children and husband praise her, for her true worth stems from her fear of the LORD, not fleeting beauty.

Proverbs 31 commences with the solemn instruction given to King Lemuel by his mother, a prophecy intended to guide his reign. She first cautions him against succumbing to the allure of women who lead kings to destruction and sternly warns against the consumption of wine and strong drink by those in authority. Her reasoning is clear: intoxication can cause rulers to forget the law and pervert the judgment of the afflicted. Instead, she suggests strong drink is for those who are perishing or have heavy hearts, to help them forget their misery. Her primary charge to Lemuel is to open his mouth for the dumb, to judge righteously, and to plead the cause of the poor and needy, thus emphasizing justice and compassion as core kingly duties. The chapter then shifts to an extensive and celebrated portrayal of a virtuous woman, whose worth is declared to be far above rubies. Her husband trusts her implicitly, knowing she will always do him good. She is characterized by her tireless industry, seeking wool and flax, and working willingly with her hands, like merchant ships bringing food from afar. Rising before dawn, she provides for her household and maidens, and demonstrates shrewd business sense in considering and purchasing a field, planting a vineyard with her earnings. She is physically strong, diligent in her work, and her candle burns late into the night. Her generosity is evident as she stretches out her hand to the poor and needy. She prepares her household for winter, clothing them in scarlet, and adorns herself with fine tapestry, silk, and purple. Her husband is respected in the community, partly due to her excellence. She creates and sells fine linen and girdles, embodying strength and honor. Her speech is wise and kind, and she diligently oversees her household, avoiding idleness. Her children and husband rise up to call her blessed, praising her above all other virtuous women. The chapter concludes by asserting that favour and beauty are fleeting, but a woman who fears the LORD is the one who shall be praised, and her works will speak for themselves in the gates.