
Text -- Proverbs 31:1-30 (NET)




Names, People and Places, Dictionary Themes and Topics



collapse allCommentary -- Word/Phrase Notes (per phrase)
Wesley -> Pro 31:1; Pro 31:2; Pro 31:2; Pro 31:3; Pro 31:3; Pro 31:4; Pro 31:6; Pro 31:8; Pro 31:8; Pro 31:10; Pro 31:11; Pro 31:13; Pro 31:13; Pro 31:14; Pro 31:15; Pro 31:16; Pro 31:16; Pro 31:16; Pro 31:17; Pro 31:17; Pro 31:18; Pro 31:18; Pro 31:19; Pro 31:21; Pro 31:21; Pro 31:22; Pro 31:22; Pro 31:23; Pro 31:23; Pro 31:24; Pro 31:25; Pro 31:25; Pro 31:25; Pro 31:26; Pro 31:26; Pro 31:27; Pro 31:30; Pro 31:30
Wesley: Pro 31:1 - -- Of Solomon, by the general consent both of Jewish and Christian writers; this name signifies one from God, or belonging to God, and such an one was So...
Of Solomon, by the general consent both of Jewish and Christian writers; this name signifies one from God, or belonging to God, and such an one was Solomon eminently, being given by God to David and Bathsheba, as a pledge of his reconciliation to them after their repentance. Possibly his mother gave him this name to mind him of his great obligations to God, and of the justice of his devoting himself to God's service.

Wesley: Pro 31:2 - -- A short speech, arguing her great passion for him; what words shall I take? What counsels shall I give thee? My heart is full, but where shall I begin...
A short speech, arguing her great passion for him; what words shall I take? What counsels shall I give thee? My heart is full, but where shall I begin? Of my womb - My son, not by adoption, but whom I bare in the womb, and therefore it is my duty to give thee admonitions, and thine to receive them.

Wesley: Pro 31:2 - -- On whose behalf I have made many prayers and sacrifices, and solemn vows to God; whom I have, as far as in me lay, devoted to the work, and service, a...
On whose behalf I have made many prayers and sacrifices, and solemn vows to God; whom I have, as far as in me lay, devoted to the work, and service, and glory of God.

Thy conversation, repeated in other words.

Wesley: Pro 31:8 - -- For such as cannot speak in their own cause, either through ignorance, or because of the dread of their more potent adversaries.
For such as cannot speak in their own cause, either through ignorance, or because of the dread of their more potent adversaries.

Who, without such succour from the judges, are like to be utterly ruined.

Wesley: Pro 31:10 - -- Here he lays down several qualifications of an excellent wife, which are delivered in alphabetical order, each verse beginning with a several letter o...
Here he lays down several qualifications of an excellent wife, which are delivered in alphabetical order, each verse beginning with a several letter of the Hebrew alphabet.

He shall have no need to use indirect courses to get wealth.

That she may find employment for her servants.

Wesley: Pro 31:13 - -- She encourages them to work by her example; which was a common practice among princesses in those first ages. Not that it is the duty of kings and que...
She encourages them to work by her example; which was a common practice among princesses in those first ages. Not that it is the duty of kings and queens to use manual operations, but it is the duty of all persons, the greatest not excepted, to improve all their talents, and particularly their time, which is one of the noblest of them, to the service of that God to whom they must give an account, and to the good of that community to which they are related.

Wesley: Pro 31:14 - -- By the sale of her home - spun commodities she purchases the choicest goods which come from far countries.
By the sale of her home - spun commodities she purchases the choicest goods which come from far countries.

She improves the land to the best advantage.

Wesley: Pro 31:17 - -- She uses great diligence and expedition in her employment; for which end, men in those times used to gird up their long and loose garments about their...
She uses great diligence and expedition in her employment; for which end, men in those times used to gird up their long and loose garments about their loins.

Puts forth her utmost strength in her business.

She finds great comfort in her labours.

Wesley: Pro 31:18 - -- Which is not to be taken strictly, but only signifies her unwearied care and industry.
Which is not to be taken strictly, but only signifies her unwearied care and industry.

Wesley: Pro 31:19 - -- By her own example she provokes her servants to labour. And although in these latter and more delicate times, such mean employments are grown out of f...
By her own example she provokes her servants to labour. And although in these latter and more delicate times, such mean employments are grown out of fashion among great persons, yet they were not so in former ages, neither in other countries, nor in this land; whence all women unmarried unto this day are called in the language of our law, Spinsters.

Wesley: Pro 31:21 - -- She hath provided enough, not only for their necessity, but also for their delight and ornament.
She hath provided enough, not only for their necessity, but also for their delight and ornament.

Which was agreeable to her high quality.

Observed and respected, not only for his own worth, but for his wife's sake.

Curiously wrought of linen, and gold, or other precious materials.

Strength of mind, magnanimity, courage, activity.

Wesley: Pro 31:25 - -- She lives in constant tranquillity of mind, from a just confidence in God's gracious providence.
She lives in constant tranquillity of mind, from a just confidence in God's gracious providence.

Wesley: Pro 31:26 - -- She is neither sullenly silent, nor full of impertinent talk, but speaks discreetly and piously, as occasion offers.
She is neither sullenly silent, nor full of impertinent talk, but speaks discreetly and piously, as occasion offers.

Wesley: Pro 31:26 - -- Her speeches are guided by wisdom and grace, and not by inordinate passions. And this practice is called a law in her tongue, because it is constant a...
Her speeches are guided by wisdom and grace, and not by inordinate passions. And this practice is called a law in her tongue, because it is constant and customary, and proceeds from an inward and powerful principle of true wisdom.

Wesley: Pro 31:27 - -- She diligently observes the management of her domestick business, and the whole carriage of her children and servants.
She diligently observes the management of her domestick business, and the whole carriage of her children and servants.

Comeliness, which commonly gives women favour with those who behold them.

Wesley: Pro 31:30 - -- It gives a false representation of the person, being often a cover to a deformed soul; it does not give a man that satisfaction, which at first he pro...
It gives a false representation of the person, being often a cover to a deformed soul; it does not give a man that satisfaction, which at first he promised to himself from it; and it is soon lost, not only by death, but by many diseases and contingencies.
JFB -> Pro 31:1; Pro 31:1; Pro 31:2; Pro 31:2; Pro 31:2; Pro 31:3-9; Pro 31:3-9; Pro 31:3-9; Pro 31:3-9; Pro 31:4-5; Pro 31:4-5; Pro 31:6-7; Pro 31:8-9; Pro 31:8-9; Pro 31:8-9; Pro 31:8-9; Pro 31:8-9; Pro 31:11; Pro 31:11; Pro 31:12; Pro 31:13-14; Pro 31:15; Pro 31:16; Pro 31:17-18; Pro 31:19; Pro 31:20; Pro 31:21; Pro 31:22; Pro 31:22; Pro 31:22; Pro 31:23; Pro 31:24; Pro 31:24; Pro 31:24; Pro 31:25; Pro 31:25; Pro 31:26; Pro 31:27; Pro 31:28; Pro 31:29; Pro 31:29; Pro 31:30; Pro 31:30
JFB: Pro 31:1 - -- (Pro. 31:1-31)
On the title of this, the sixth part of the book, see Introduction.
(Pro. 31:1-31)
On the title of this, the sixth part of the book, see Introduction.

That is, What shall I say? Repetitions denote earnestness.

As our phrase, "my own son," a term of special affection.

As one dedicated to God; so the word "Lemuel" may mean.

JFB: Pro 31:3-9 - -- Succinct but solemn warnings against vices to which kings are peculiarly tempted, as carnal pleasures and oppressive and unrighteous government are us...
Succinct but solemn warnings against vices to which kings are peculiarly tempted, as carnal pleasures and oppressive and unrighteous government are used to sustain sensual indulgence.

Mental and bodily resources for health and comfort.

JFB: Pro 31:3-9 - -- Literally, "to the destroying of kings," avoid destructive pleasures (compare Pro 5:9; Pro 7:22, Pro 7:27; Hos 4:11).

JFB: Pro 31:4-5 - -- Stimulants enfeeble reason, pervert the heart, and do not suit rulers, who need clear and steady minds, and well-governed affections (compare Pro 20:1...

They give unrighteous decisions against the poor.

JFB: Pro 31:6-7 - -- The proper use of such drinks is to restore tone to feeble bodies and depressed minds (compare Psa 104:15).
The proper use of such drinks is to restore tone to feeble bodies and depressed minds (compare Psa 104:15).

JFB: Pro 31:8-9 - -- Plead for those who cannot plead for themselves, as the orphan, stranger, &c. (compare Psa 72:12; Isa 1:17).

JFB: Pro 31:8-9 - -- Who are otherwise ruined by their oppressors (compare Pro 29:14, Pro 29:16).||
17295||1||22||0||This exquisite picture of a truly lovely wife is conce...
Who are otherwise ruined by their oppressors (compare Pro 29:14, Pro 29:16).|| 17295||1||22||0||This exquisite picture of a truly lovely wife is conceived and drawn in accordance with the customs of Eastern nations, but its moral teachings suit all climes. In Hebrew the verses begin with the letters of the Hebrew alphabet in order (compare Introduction to Poetical Books).

JFB: Pro 31:8-9 - -- The question implies that such are rare, though not entirely wanting (compare Pro 18:22; Pro 19:14).


Does not lack profit or gain, especially, that obtained by the risk of war.

JFB: Pro 31:13-14 - -- Ancient women of rank thus wrought with their hands; and such, indeed, were the customs of Western women a few centuries since. In the East also, the ...
Ancient women of rank thus wrought with their hands; and such, indeed, were the customs of Western women a few centuries since. In the East also, the fabrics were articles of merchandise.

She diligently attends to expending as well as gathering wealth;

And hence has means to purchase property.

JFB: Pro 31:17-18 - -- To energy she adds a watchfulness in bargains, and a protracted and painful industry. The last clause may figuratively denote that her prosperity (com...
To energy she adds a watchfulness in bargains, and a protracted and painful industry. The last clause may figuratively denote that her prosperity (compare Pro 24:20) is not short lived.

No work, however mean, if honest, is disdained.

JFB: Pro 31:21 - -- Or, "purple," by reason of the dyes used, the best fabrics; as a matter of taste also; the color suits cold.
Or, "purple," by reason of the dyes used, the best fabrics; as a matter of taste also; the color suits cold.


JFB: Pro 31:23 - -- (compare Pro 22:22). His domestic comfort promotes his advancement in public dignity.
(compare Pro 22:22). His domestic comfort promotes his advancement in public dignity.

Or, "linen shirts," or the material for them.

JFB: Pro 31:25 - -- Strong and beautiful is her clothing; or, figuratively, for moral character, vigorous and honorable.
Strong and beautiful is her clothing; or, figuratively, for moral character, vigorous and honorable.

JFB: Pro 31:27 - -- (Compare 1Ti 5:14; Tit 2:5). She adds to her example a wise management of those under her control.

She is honored by those who best know her.

The words are those of her husband, praising her.
Clarke -> Pro 31:1; Pro 31:1; Pro 31:2; Pro 31:2; Pro 31:3; Pro 31:4; Pro 31:5; Pro 31:6; Pro 31:8; Pro 31:8; Pro 31:10; Pro 31:11; Pro 31:12; Pro 31:13; Pro 31:14; Pro 31:15; Pro 31:16; Pro 31:17; Pro 31:18; Pro 31:19; Pro 31:20; Pro 31:21; Pro 31:21; Pro 31:22; Pro 31:23; Pro 31:24; Pro 31:26; Pro 31:26; Pro 31:26; Pro 31:27; Pro 31:27; Pro 31:28; Pro 31:29; Pro 31:30
Clarke: Pro 31:1 - -- The words of King Lemuel - דברי למואל מכך dibrey lemuel melech , "The words to Muel the king."So the Syriac; and so I think it should b...
The words of King Lemuel -
But who is Muel or Lemuel? Solomon, according to general opinion; and the mother here mentioned, Bath-sheba. I cannot receive these sayings; fo
1. Whoever this was, he appears to have been the first-born of his mother: called here emphatically
2. It is intimated here that this son had come by a lawful marriage: hence
But, however this may be, there is no evidence whatever that Muel or Lemuel means Solomon; the chapter seems, to be much later than his time, and the several Chaldaisms which occur in the very opening of it are no mean proof of this. If Agur was not the author of it, it may be considered as another supplement to the book of Proverbs. Most certainly Solomon did not write it

Clarke: Pro 31:1 - -- The prophecy that his mother taught him - משא massa may here signify the oracle; the subject that came by Divine inspiration; see on Pro 30:1 ...
The prophecy that his mother taught him -

Clarke: Pro 31:2 - -- What, my son? - The Chaldee בר bar is used twice in this verse, instead of the Hebrew בן ben , son. This verse is very elliptical; and comme...
What, my son? - The Chaldee

Clarke: Pro 31:2 - -- The son of my vows? - A child born after vows made for offsprings is called the child of a person’ s vows.
The son of my vows? - A child born after vows made for offsprings is called the child of a person’ s vows.

Clarke: Pro 31:3 - -- Give not thy strength - Do not waste thy substance on women
In such intercourse the strength of body, soul and substance is destroyed
Such connectio...
Give not thy strength - Do not waste thy substance on women
In such intercourse the strength of body, soul and substance is destroyed
Such connections are those which destroy kings,

Clarke: Pro 31:4 - -- It is not for kings - to drink wine - An intemperate man is ill fit to hold the reins of government.
It is not for kings - to drink wine - An intemperate man is ill fit to hold the reins of government.

Clarke: Pro 31:5 - -- Lest they drink, and forget the law - When they should be administering justice, they are found incapable of it; or, if they go into the judgment-se...
Lest they drink, and forget the law - When they should be administering justice, they are found incapable of it; or, if they go into the judgment-seat, may pervert justice.

Clarke: Pro 31:6 - -- Give strong drink unto him that is ready to perish - We have already seen, that inebriating drinks were mercifully given to condemned criminals, to ...
Give strong drink unto him that is ready to perish - We have already seen, that inebriating drinks were mercifully given to condemned criminals, to render them less sensible of the torture they endured in dying. This is what was offered to our Lord; but he refused it. See note on Psa 104:15.

Clarke: Pro 31:8 - -- Open thy mouth for the dumb - For such accused persons as have no counsellors, and cannot plead for themselves
Open thy mouth for the dumb - For such accused persons as have no counsellors, and cannot plead for themselves

Clarke: Pro 31:8 - -- Are appointed to destruction - בני חלוף beney chaloph , variously translated, children of passage - indigent travelers; children of desolati...
Are appointed to destruction -

Clarke: Pro 31:10 - -- Who can find a virtuous woman? - This and the following verses are acrostic, each beginning with a consecutive letter of the Hebrew alphabet: Pro 31...
Who can find a virtuous woman? - This and the following verses are acrostic, each beginning with a consecutive letter of the Hebrew alphabet: Pro 31:10,
I. Her general character
1. She is a virtuous wo man - a woman of power and strength.
2. She is invaluable; her price is far above rubies - no quantity of precious stones can be equal to her worth.

Clarke: Pro 31:11 - -- The heart of her husband -
3. She is an unspotted wife. The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her - he knows she will take care that a prope...
The heart of her husband -
3. She is an unspotted wife. The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her - he knows she will take care that a proper provision is made for his household, and will not waste any thing. He has no need for spoil - he is not obliged to go out on predatory excursions, to provide for his family, at the expense of the neighboring tribes.

Clarke: Pro 31:12 - -- She will do him good -
4. She has her husband’ s happiness in view constantly. She recompenses all his kindness to her in beneficent acts. For ...
She will do him good -
4. She has her husband’ s happiness in view constantly. She recompenses all his kindness to her in beneficent acts. For kind words she returns kind deeds
1. Her good is unmixed; she will do him good. and not evil
2 Her good is not capricious; it is constant and permanent, while she and her husband live. His heart safely trusts in her, for she will do him good all the days of her life. This is her general character.

Clarke: Pro 31:13 - -- She seeketh wood and flax, and worketh willingly, etc. -
II. This is the second part of her character, giving the particulars of which it is compose...
She seeketh wood and flax, and worketh willingly, etc. -
II. This is the second part of her character, giving the particulars of which it is composed
1. She did not buy ready woven cloth: she procured the raw material, if wool, most probably from her own flocks; if flax, most probably from her own fields
2. Here she manufactured; for she worketh willingly with her hands. And all her labor is a cheerful service; her will, her heart, is in it
It needs no arguments to prove that women, even of the highest ranks, among the Greeks, Romans, and Israelites, worked with their hands at every kind of occupation necessary for the support of the family. This kind of employment was not peculiar to the virtuous woman in the text.

Clarke: Pro 31:14 - -- She is like the merchants’ ships -
3. She acts like merchants. If she buy any thing for her household, she sells sufficient of her own manufac...
She is like the merchants’ ships -
3. She acts like merchants. If she buy any thing for her household, she sells sufficient of her own manufactures to pay for it; if she imports, she exports: and she sends articles of her own manufacturing or produce to distant countries; she traffics with the neighboring tribes.

Clarke: Pro 31:15 - -- She riseth also while it is yet night -
4. She is an economist of time; and when the nights are long, and the days short, her family not only spend ...
She riseth also while it is yet night -
4. She is an economist of time; and when the nights are long, and the days short, her family not only spend a part of the evening after sunset in domestic labor, but they all arise before daylight, and prepare the day’ s food, that they may not have their labor interrupted. To those who are going to the fields, and to the flocks, she gives the food necessary for the day:

Clarke: Pro 31:16 - -- She considereth a field and buyeth it -
5. She provides for the growing wants of her family. More land will shortly be needed, for the family is gro...
She considereth a field and buyeth it -
5. She provides for the growing wants of her family. More land will shortly be needed, for the family is growing up; and having seen a field contiguous to her own, which was on sale, she estimates its worth, and purchases it a good bargain; and she pays for it by the fruit of her own industry
6. She does not restrict herself to the bare necessaries of life; she is able to procure some of its comforts. She plants a vineyard, that she may have wine for a beverage, for medicine, and for sacrifice. This also is procured of her own labor. Whatever goes out brings its worth in; and barter, not buying, is her chief mode of traffic.

Clarke: Pro 31:17 - -- She girdeth her loins with strength -
7. She takes care of her own health and strength, not only by means of useful labor, but by healthy exercise. ...
She girdeth her loins with strength -
7. She takes care of her own health and strength, not only by means of useful labor, but by healthy exercise. She avoids what might enervate her body, or soften her mind - she is ever active, and girt ready for every necessary exercise. Her loins are firm, and her arms strong.

Clarke: Pro 31:18 - -- She perceiveth that her merchandise is good -
8. She takes care to manufacture the best articles of the kind, and to lay on a reasonable price that ...
She perceiveth that her merchandise is good -
8. She takes care to manufacture the best articles of the kind, and to lay on a reasonable price that she may secure a ready sale. Her goods are in high repute, and she knows she can sell as much as she can make. And she finds that while she pleases her customers, she increases her own profits
9. She is watchful and careful. Her candle - her lamp, burns all night, which is of great advantage in case of sudden alarms; and in the times and places where there were so many banditti, this was a very necessary family regulation. Perhaps some works were carried on during the night, those employed sleeping in the daytime. Thus labor never stood still; whilst some slept, others worked. This was no unusual thing in ancient times; and it prevails now; but alas! little children are often thus employed to help to support their indigent parents, and to fill the coffers of their unfeeling taskmasters.

Clarke: Pro 31:19 - -- She layeth her hands to the spindle -
10. She gives an example of skill and industry to her household. She takes the distaff, that on which the wool...
She layeth her hands to the spindle -
10. She gives an example of skill and industry to her household. She takes the distaff, that on which the wool or flax was rolled; and the spindle, that by twisting of which she twisted the thread with the right hand, while she held the distaff in the guard of the left arm, and drew down the thread with the fingers of the left hand. Allowing that spindle and distaff are proper translations of

Clarke: Pro 31:20 - -- She stretcheth out her hand to the poor -
11. She is truly charitable. She knows that in every portion of a man’ s gain God requires a lot for ...
She stretcheth out her hand to the poor -
11. She is truly charitable. She knows that in every portion of a man’ s gain God requires a lot for the poor; and if this is not given, God’ s blessing is not in the rest. And she is not contented to give common alms. While with one hand (

Clarke: Pro 31:21 - -- She is not afraid of the snow -
12. She is not anxious relative to the health and comfort of her family in the winter season, having provided clothe...
She is not afraid of the snow -
12. She is not anxious relative to the health and comfort of her family in the winter season, having provided clothes sufficient for each in the cold weather, in addition to those which they wore in the warm season

Clarke: Pro 31:21 - -- For all her household are clothed with scarlet - Not scarlet, for the color can avail nothing in keeping off the cold; nor would it be a proper colo...
For all her household are clothed with scarlet - Not scarlet, for the color can avail nothing in keeping off the cold; nor would it be a proper color for the bogs and dirt of winter. But

Clarke: Pro 31:22 - -- She maketh herself coverings of tapestry -
13. She is not regardless either of her own person, or of the decent, proper appearance of her presses an...
She maketh herself coverings of tapestry -
13. She is not regardless either of her own person, or of the decent, proper appearance of her presses and wardrobe. She has coverings or carpeting for her guests to sit upon; she has also tapestry,

Clarke: Pro 31:23 - -- Her husband is known in the gates -
14. She is a loving wife, and feels for the respectability and honor of her husband. He is an elder among his pe...
Her husband is known in the gates -
14. She is a loving wife, and feels for the respectability and honor of her husband. He is an elder among his people, and he sits as a magistrate in the gate. He is respected not only on account of the neatness and cleanliness of his person and dress, but because he is the husband of a woman who is justly held in universal esteem. And her complete management of household affairs gives him full leisure to devote himself to the civil interests of the community.

Clarke: Pro 31:24 - -- She maketh fine linen, and selleth it -
15. She is here remarkable for carrying on a traffic of splendid and ornamental dresses, or habits, as she i...
She maketh fine linen, and selleth it -
15. She is here remarkable for carrying on a traffic of splendid and ornamental dresses, or habits, as she is, Pro 31:13, for "a coarser manufacture,"The
The Arabic gives a remarkable translation of this verse: "She maketh towels, (or tablecloths), and sells them to the inhabitants of Basra, (a city in Mesopotamia), and fine linens, and sells them to the Canaanites."My old MS. Bible has, Sandel sche made and sold, and a litil girdil sche toke to Chanane. Perhaps

Clarke: Pro 31:26 - -- Strength and honor are her clothing -
16. All the articles manufactured by herself or under her care have a double perfection
1. T...
Strength and honor are her clothing -
16. All the articles manufactured by herself or under her care have a double perfection
1. They are strong
2. They are elegant
Strength and honor are her clothing; and on account of this she shall rejoice in time to come; she shall never have occasion to blush for any thing she has made, for any thing she or hers have worn, or for any thing she has sold. Besides, she has so conducted herself that she has reason to expect that the hand of the Lord shall be still with her, and shall keep her from evil that it may not grieve her.

Clarke: Pro 31:26 - -- She openeth her mouth with wisdom -
17. He comes now to the moral management of her family
1. She is wise and intelligent; she has...
She openeth her mouth with wisdom -
17. He comes now to the moral management of her family
1. She is wise and intelligent; she has not neglected the cultivation of her mind
2. She is amiable in her carriage, full of good nature, well tempered, and conciliating in her manners and address

Clarke: Pro 31:26 - -- In her tongue is the law of kindness - This is the most distinguishing excellence of this woman. There are very few of those who are called managing...
In her tongue is the law of kindness - This is the most distinguishing excellence of this woman. There are very few of those who are called managing women who are not lords over their husbands, tyrants over their servants, and insolent among their neighbors. But this woman, with all her eminence and excellence, was of a meek and quiet spirit. Blessed woman!

Clarke: Pro 31:27 - -- She looketh well to the ways of her household -
18. She is a moral manager: she takes care that all shall behave themselves well; that none of them ...
She looketh well to the ways of her household -
18. She is a moral manager: she takes care that all shall behave themselves well; that none of them shall keep bad company or contract vicious habits. A religious industry, or an industrious religion, is the law of her house. She can instruct them in religion, as well as she can teach them in their labor. In her house, diligence in business, and fervency of spirit, serving the Lord, go hand in hand

Clarke: Pro 31:27 - -- And eateth not the bread of idleness -
19. She knows that idleness leads to vice; and therefore every one has his work, and every one has his proper...
And eateth not the bread of idleness -
19. She knows that idleness leads to vice; and therefore every one has his work, and every one has his proper food. That they may work well, they are fed well; and every one, at least, earns the bread that he eats - eateth not the bread of idleness.

Clarke: Pro 31:28 - -- Her children arise up, and call her blessed -
20. She considers a good education next to Divine influence; and she knows also that if she train up a...
Her children arise up, and call her blessed -
20. She considers a good education next to Divine influence; and she knows also that if she train up a child in the way he should go, when he is old he will not depart from it
1. Her children are well bred; they rise up and pay due respect
2. They are taught the fear of the lord, and obedience to his testimonies; therefore they call her blessed. So they are of a decent, orderly, respectable, religious behavior
3. Her husband is so satisfied with her conduct towards himself, his household, his business, and their children, that he praiseth her. He shows himself sensible of her excellence, and encourages her, in her work, by the commendations he bestows.

Clarke: Pro 31:29 - -- Many daughters have done virtuously - This is undoubtedly the speech of the husband, giving testimony to the excellence of his wife: "Her husband al...
Many daughters have done virtuously - This is undoubtedly the speech of the husband, giving testimony to the excellence of his wife: "Her husband also, and he praiseth her, saying, ‘ many daughters,’ women, ‘ have done virtuously,’ with due propriety as wives, mistresses, and mothers; ‘ but Thou,’ my incomparable wife, ‘ excellent them all;’

Clarke: Pro 31:30 - -- Favor is deceitful, and beauty is vain, etc. -
III. Here is the summing up of the character
1. Favour, חן chen , grace of manner may be deceitful...
Favor is deceitful, and beauty is vain, etc. -
III. Here is the summing up of the character
1. Favour,
2. Beauty,
3. "But a woman that feareth the Lord,"that possesses true religion, has that grace that harmonizes the soul, that purifies and refines all the tempers and passions, and that ornament of beauty, a meek and quiet mind, which in the sight of God is of great price: -
She shall be praised - This is the lasting grace, the unfading beauty.
Defender: Pro 31:1 - -- Since there was no king of either Judah or Israel named Lemuel, and since it is very unlikely that this chapter could refer to the king of one of the ...
Since there was no king of either Judah or Israel named Lemuel, and since it is very unlikely that this chapter could refer to the king of one of the pagan nations around the children of Israel, it seems probable that Lemuel (meaning "belonging to God") is simply another name - or title - for King Solomon."

Defender: Pro 31:7 - -- At first this advice seems to contradict such prohibitions as in Pro 23:31. However, it is obvious in context that the advice is given in irony to tho...

Defender: Pro 31:10 - -- The twenty-two verses describing the virtuous woman (Proverbs 31:10-31) comprise an acrostic, with each successive verse beginning with the appropriat...
The twenty-two verses describing the virtuous woman (Proverbs 31:10-31) comprise an acrostic, with each successive verse beginning with the appropriate letter of the twenty-two letters of the Hebrew alphabet.

Defender: Pro 31:10 - -- The adjective "virtuous" (Hebrew chagil) is only translated "virtuous" when describing women (Rth 3:11; Pro 12:4). The word much more commonly means "...
The adjective "virtuous" (Hebrew
TSK -> Pro 31:1; Pro 31:2; Pro 31:3; Pro 31:4; Pro 31:5; Pro 31:6; Pro 31:7; Pro 31:8; Pro 31:9; Pro 31:10; Pro 31:11; Pro 31:12; Pro 31:13; Pro 31:14; Pro 31:15; Pro 31:16; Pro 31:17; Pro 31:18; Pro 31:19; Pro 31:20; Pro 31:21; Pro 31:22; Pro 31:23; Pro 31:24; Pro 31:25; Pro 31:26; Pro 31:27; Pro 31:28; Pro 31:29; Pro 31:30


TSK: Pro 31:3 - -- strength : Pro 5:9-11, Pro 7:26, Pro 7:27; Hos 4:11
to that : Deu 17:17; Neh 13:26

TSK: Pro 31:4 - -- Lev 10:9, Lev 10:10; 1Ki 20:12, 1Ki 20:16-20; Est 3:15; Ecc 10:17; Isa 28:7, Isa 28:8; Dan 5:2-4; Hos 4:11, Hos 4:12, Hos 7:3-5; Hab 2:5; Mar 6:21-28

TSK: Pro 31:5 - -- pervert : Heb. alter
any of the afflicted : Heb. all the sons of affliction, Hab 2:5
pervert : Heb. alter
any of the afflicted : Heb. all the sons of affliction, Hab 2:5

TSK: Pro 31:6 - -- strong : Psa 104:15; 1Ti 5:23
of heavy hearts : Heb. bitter of soul, 1Sa 1:10, 1Sa 30:6; 2Ki 4:27 *marg.
strong : Psa 104:15; 1Ti 5:23
of heavy hearts : Heb. bitter of soul, 1Sa 1:10, 1Sa 30:6; 2Ki 4:27 *marg.

TSK: Pro 31:8 - -- Open : Pro 24:7, Pro 24:11, Pro 24:12; 1Sa 19:4-7, 1Sa 20:32, 1Sa 22:14, 1Sa 22:15; Est 4:13-16; Job 29:9, Job 29:17; Psa 82:3, Psa 82:4; Jer 26:16-19...
Open : Pro 24:7, Pro 24:11, Pro 24:12; 1Sa 19:4-7, 1Sa 20:32, 1Sa 22:14, 1Sa 22:15; Est 4:13-16; Job 29:9, Job 29:17; Psa 82:3, Psa 82:4; Jer 26:16-19, Jer 26:24, Jer 38:7-10; Joh 7:51
such : etc. Heb. the sons of destruction, Psa 79:11 *marg.

TSK: Pro 31:9 - -- Pro 16:12, Pro 20:8; Lev 19:15; Deu 1:16, Deu 16:18-20; 2Sa 8:15; Psa 58:1, Psa 58:2; Psa 72:1, Psa 72:2; Job 29:12, Job 29:15, Job 29:16; Isa 1:17, I...
Pro 16:12, Pro 20:8; Lev 19:15; Deu 1:16, Deu 16:18-20; 2Sa 8:15; Psa 58:1, Psa 58:2; Psa 72:1, Psa 72:2; Job 29:12, Job 29:15, Job 29:16; Isa 1:17, Isa 1:23, Isa 11:4, Isa 32:1, Isa 32:2; Jer 5:28; Jer 22:3, Jer 22:15, Jer 22:16, Jer 23:5; Dan 4:27; Amo 5:11, Amo 5:12; Zec 7:9, Zec 9:9; Joh 7:24; Heb 1:9; Rev 19:11

TSK: Pro 31:10 - -- Who : This is the commencement of an alphabetical poem, each verse beginning consecutively with a letter of the Hebrew alphabet; in which we are prese...
Who : This is the commencement of an alphabetical poem, each verse beginning consecutively with a letter of the Hebrew alphabet; in which we are presented with an admirable picture of a good wife, according to the primitive manners of the East.
can : Pro 12:4, Pro 18:22, Pro 19:14; Rth 3:11; Ecc 7:28; Son 6:8, Son 6:9; Eph 5:25-33


TSK: Pro 31:13 - -- worketh : Gen 18:6-8, Gen 24:13, Gen 24:14, Gen 24:18-20, Gen 29:9, Gen 29:10; Exo 2:16; Rth 2:2, Rth 2:3, Rth 2:23; Isa 3:16-24, Isa 32:9-11; Act 9:3...
worketh : Gen 18:6-8, Gen 24:13, Gen 24:14, Gen 24:18-20, Gen 29:9, Gen 29:10; Exo 2:16; Rth 2:2, Rth 2:3, Rth 2:23; Isa 3:16-24, Isa 32:9-11; Act 9:39, Act 9:40; 1Th 4:11; 2Th 3:10-12; 1Ti 5:10, 1Ti 5:14; Tit 2:5

TSK: Pro 31:15 - -- riseth : Jos 3:1; 2Ch 36:15; Psa 119:147, Psa 119:148; Ecc 9:10; Mar 1:35; Rom 12:11
and giveth : Mat 24:25; Luk 12:42
riseth : Jos 3:1; 2Ch 36:15; Psa 119:147, Psa 119:148; Ecc 9:10; Mar 1:35; Rom 12:11


TSK: Pro 31:17 - -- girdeth : 1Ki 18:46; 2Ki 4:29; Job 38:3; Luk 12:35; Eph 6:10, Eph 6:14; 1Pe 1:13
strengtheneth : Gen 49:24; Isa 44:12; Hos 7:15

TSK: Pro 31:18 - -- perceiveth : Heb. tasteth
her candle : Gen 31:40; Psa 127:2; Mat 25:3-10; 1Th 2:9; 2Th 3:7-9
perceiveth : Heb. tasteth
her candle : Gen 31:40; Psa 127:2; Mat 25:3-10; 1Th 2:9; 2Th 3:7-9

TSK: Pro 31:19 - -- She takes the spindle in her right hand, by twisting which she twists the thread; while she holds the distaff, on which the wool or flax is rolled, in...

TSK: Pro 31:20 - -- She stretcheth : Heb. She spreadeth, Pro 1:24; Rom 10:21
she reacheth : Pro 19:17, Pro 22:9; Job 31:16-20; Psa 41:1, Psa 112:9; Ecc 11:1, Ecc 11:2; Ma...


TSK: Pro 31:22 - -- coverings : Pro 7:16
clothing : Gen 41:42 *marg. Est 5:1, Est 8:15; Psa 45:13, Psa 45:14; Eze 16:10-13; 1Pe 3:3
silk : Shesh , rather fine linen, or...
coverings : Pro 7:16
clothing : Gen 41:42 *marg. Est 5:1, Est 8:15; Psa 45:13, Psa 45:14; Eze 16:10-13; 1Pe 3:3
silk :



TSK: Pro 31:25 - -- Strength : Job 29:14, Job 40:10; Psa 132:9, Psa 132:16; Isa 61:10; Rom 13:14; Eph 4:24; 1Ti 2:10; 1Pe 5:5, 1Pe 5:6
and she : Psa 97:11, Psa 97:12; Isa...

TSK: Pro 31:26 - -- openeth : Pro 31:8, Pro 31:9; Jdg 13:23; 1Sa 25:24-31; 2Sa 20:16-22; 2Ki 22:15-20; Est 4:4; Est 5:8, Est 7:3-6, Est 8:3-6; Luk 1:38, Luk 1:42-56; Act ...
openeth : Pro 31:8, Pro 31:9; Jdg 13:23; 1Sa 25:24-31; 2Sa 20:16-22; 2Ki 22:15-20; Est 4:4; Est 5:8, Est 7:3-6, Est 8:3-6; Luk 1:38, Luk 1:42-56; Act 18:26; Eph 4:29; Col 4:5
in her : Pro 12:18, Pro 16:24, Pro 25:15; Gen 24:18-20; Son 2:14, Son 4:11; Mal 2:6; Act 6:15; 1Pe 3:1, 1Pe 3:4, 1Pe 3:5, 1Pe 3:8, 1Pe 3:9


TSK: Pro 31:28 - -- children : Pro 31:1; 1Ki 2:19; Psa 116:16; 2Ti 1:5, 2Ti 3:15-17
her husband : Son 7:1-9; Isa 62:4, Isa 62:5 *marg.
children : Pro 31:1; 1Ki 2:19; Psa 116:16; 2Ti 1:5, 2Ti 3:15-17


TSK: Pro 31:30 - -- Favour : Pro 6:25, Pro 11:22; 2Sa 14:25; Est 1:11, Est 1:12; Eze 16:15; Jam 1:11; 1Pe 1:24
a woman : Pro 1:7, Pro 8:13; Exo 1:17-21; Psa 147:11; Luk 1...

collapse allCommentary -- Word/Phrase Notes (per Verse)
Barnes: Pro 31:1 - -- That his mother taught him - Compare Pro 1:8; Pro 6:20. If we refer the chapter to Israelite authorship, we may remember the honor paid to the ...
That his mother taught him - Compare Pro 1:8; Pro 6:20. If we refer the chapter to Israelite authorship, we may remember the honor paid to the wisdom of Miriam, Deborah, and Huldah; if it was the honor paid to an Edomite or an Arabian, we may think of the Queen of Sheba, whose love of Wisdom led her to sit at the feet of the son of David.

Barnes: Pro 31:2 - -- The repetitions are emphatic; expressive of anxious love. Son of my vows - Like Samuel, and Samson, the child often asked for in prayer, the p...
The repetitions are emphatic; expressive of anxious love.
Son of my vows - Like Samuel, and Samson, the child often asked for in prayer, the prayer ratified by a vow of dedication. The name Lemuel (literally "for God,"consecrated to Him) may be the expression of that dedication; and the warning against indulging in wine Pro 31:4 shows that it had something of the Nazarite or Rechabite idea in it.

Barnes: Pro 31:3 - -- To that which destroyeth - The temptations of the harem were then, as now, the curse of all Eastern kingdoms.
To that which destroyeth - The temptations of the harem were then, as now, the curse of all Eastern kingdoms.

Barnes: Pro 31:4 - -- Some read: "nor for princes to say, Where is strong drink?"The "strong drink"Pro 20:1 was distilled from barley, or honey, or dates.
Some read: "nor for princes to say, Where is strong drink?"The "strong drink"Pro 20:1 was distilled from barley, or honey, or dates.

Barnes: Pro 31:6 - -- The true purpose of the power of wine over man’ s mind and body, as a restorative and remedial agent. Compare the margin reference. The same th...
The true purpose of the power of wine over man’ s mind and body, as a restorative and remedial agent. Compare the margin reference. The same thought showed itself in the Jewish practice of giving a cup of wine to mourners, and (as in the history of the crucifixion) to criminals at their execution.

Barnes: Pro 31:8 - -- In contrast with the two besetting sins of Eastern monarchs stands their one great duty, to give help to those who had no other helper. Such as...
In contrast with the two besetting sins of Eastern monarchs stands their one great duty, to give help to those who had no other helper.
Such as are appointed to destruction - literally, "children of bereavement,"with the sense, either, as in the text, of those "destined to be bereaved of life or goods,"or of "bereaved or fatherless children."

Barnes: Pro 31:10 - -- See the introduction to Proverbs. Rubies - Better, pearls. See the Pro 3:15 note.
See the introduction to Proverbs.
Rubies - Better, pearls. See the Pro 3:15 note.

No need of spoil - Better, no lack of gain, lack of honest gain.

Barnes: Pro 31:13 - -- Worketh willingly with her hands - Or, worketh with willing hands. The stress laid upon the industrial habits of Israelite matrons may perhaps ...
Worketh willingly with her hands - Or, worketh with willing hands. The stress laid upon the industrial habits of Israelite matrons may perhaps belong to a time when, as under the monarchy of Judah, those habits were passing away.

Barnes: Pro 31:14 - -- The comparison points to the enlarged commerce of the Israelites consequent on their contact with the Phoenicians under David and Solomon; compare P...
The comparison points to the enlarged commerce of the Israelites consequent on their contact with the Phoenicians under David and Solomon; compare Pro 31:24.

Barnes: Pro 31:15 - -- A portion to her maidens - The daily task assigned to each at the same time as the daily food. Compare Pro 30:8; Exo 5:14.

Barnes: Pro 31:16 - -- The verse points to a large sphere of feminine activity, strikingly in contrast with the degradation to which woman in the East has now fallen.
The verse points to a large sphere of feminine activity, strikingly in contrast with the degradation to which woman in the East has now fallen.

The industry is not selfish, but bears the fruit of an open-handed charity.

Barnes: Pro 31:21 - -- Scarlet - Probably some well-known articles of dress, at once conspicuous for their color, or, as some think, for their double texture and warm...
Scarlet - Probably some well-known articles of dress, at once conspicuous for their color, or, as some think, for their double texture and warmth.

Silk - Better, fine linen, the byssus of Egypt.

Barnes: Pro 31:23 - -- The industry of the wife leaves the husband free to take his place among the elders that sit in councils.
The industry of the wife leaves the husband free to take his place among the elders that sit in councils.

Barnes: Pro 31:24 - -- Fine linen - Not the same word as in Pro 31:22 note; it describes a made-up garment Isa 3:23. Merchant - literally, "Canaanite,"i. e., th...

Barnes: Pro 31:25 - -- Shall rejoice in time to come - Better, rejoiceth over the time to come; i. e., looks forward to the future, not with anxious care, but with co...
Shall rejoice in time to come - Better, rejoiceth over the time to come; i. e., looks forward to the future, not with anxious care, but with confident gladness.

Barnes: Pro 31:26 - -- Law of kindness - The words which come from the lips of the true wife are as a law giving guidance and instruction to those that hear them; but...
Law of kindness - The words which come from the lips of the true wife are as a law giving guidance and instruction to those that hear them; but the law is not proclaimed in its sterner aspects, but as one in which "mercy tempers justice,"and love, the fulfilling of the law, is seen to be the source from which it springs.

Barnes: Pro 31:29 - -- The words of praise which the husband Pro 31:28 is supposed to have addressed to the ideal wife. Virtuously - The Hebrew word has primarily (l...
The words of praise which the husband Pro 31:28 is supposed to have addressed to the ideal wife.
Virtuously - The Hebrew word has primarily (like "virtus") the idea of "strength,"but is used with various shades of meaning. Here (as in Pro 12:4; Rth 3:11) the strength is that of character stedfast in goodness. In other passages (e. g., Gen 34:29; Psa 49:10) it has the sense of "riches,"and is so taken here by the Septuagint and Vulgate, see also the marginal rendering.

Barnes: Pro 31:30 - -- The last lesson of the book is the same as the first. The fear of the Lord is the condition of all womanly, as well as of all manly, excellence. \b...
The last lesson of the book is the same as the first. The fear of the Lord is the condition of all womanly, as well as of all manly, excellence.
\brdrb \brdrs \brdrw30 \brsp20
Poole -> Pro 31:1; Pro 31:2; Pro 31:3; Pro 31:4; Pro 31:5; Pro 31:6; Pro 31:7; Pro 31:8; Pro 31:10; Pro 31:11; Pro 31:12; Pro 31:13; Pro 31:14; Pro 31:15; Pro 31:16; Pro 31:17; Pro 31:18; Pro 31:19; Pro 31:20; Pro 31:21; Pro 31:22; Pro 31:23; Pro 31:24; Pro 31:25; Pro 31:26; Pro 31:27; Pro 31:28; Pro 31:29; Pro 31:30
Poole: Pro 31:1 - -- Of king Lemuel i.e. of Solomon, by the general consent both of Jewish and Christian writers; to whom this name doth very fitly agree, for it signifi...
Of king Lemuel i.e. of Solomon, by the general consent both of Jewish and Christian writers; to whom this name doth very fitly agree, for it signifies one of or from God , or belonging to God ; and such a one was Solomon eminently, being given by God to David and Bathsheba, as a pledge of his reconciliation to them after their repentance; of whom it is expressly said that the Lord loved him , 2Sa 12:24 , and who was by God himself appointed to succeed David in the kingdom. Possibly his mother gave this name to mind him of his great obligations to God, and of the justice and necessity of his devoting himself unto God’ s service and glory.
The prophecy so called, either,
1. More especially, because she did either by natural sagacity, or by Divine inspiration, foresee Solomon’ s danger, and what sins he was most likely to be either inclined or tempted to commit; and therefore thought fit to give him these precautions, Or,
2. More generally, as all godly discourses or counsels are called prophecies; of which see on Pro 30:1 , and elsewhere.
His mother Bathsheba, who having truly repented of her adultery, did not only avoid it in herself for the future, but seriously endeavoured to prevent that and such-like sins in others, and especially in Solomon, whom the remembrance of her sin might possibly provoke to an imitation of her example. But when she gave him these instructions is but matter of conjecture. Probably it was either,
1. When she first discerned his inclinations to those sins of which she here warns him, to which she saw he was like to have many and strong provocations. Or,
2. After he was made king, and had more plainly discovered his proneness to these excesses, although he had not yet broken forth into those scandalous enormities into which he afterwards fell.

Poole: Pro 31:2 - -- What? a short speech, arguing her great passion for him; what dost thou do? or, what words shall I take? what counsels shall I give thee? My heart is...
What? a short speech, arguing her great passion for him; what dost thou do? or, what words shall I take? what counsels shall I give thee? My heart is full, I must give it vent; but where shall I begin?
The son of my womb my son, not by adoption, but whom I bare in my womb, and brought forth with great pain, and brought up with tender care; and therefore it is my duty to give thee admonitions, and thine to receive them; and what I speak is from sincere and fervent affection to thee, which I trust thou wilt not despise.
The son of my vows on whose behalf I have made many prayers, and sacrifices, and solemn vows to God; whom I have, as far as in me lay, devoted to the work, and service, and glory of God.

Poole: Pro 31:3 - -- Thy strength the rigour of thy mind and body, which is greatly impaired by inordinate lusts, as all physicians agree, and frequent experience showeth...
Thy strength the rigour of thy mind and body, which is greatly impaired by inordinate lusts, as all physicians agree, and frequent experience showeth.
Thy ways thy conversation or course of life.
To that which destroyeth kings the same thing repeated in other words, as is very usual in these books; to the immoderate love of women, which is most destructive to kings and kingdoms, as was well known to Solomon by the example of his father David, and by many other sad instances left upon record in all histories.

To drink wine to wit, to drunkenness or excess, as the next verse explains it.

Poole: Pro 31:5 - -- Forget the law the laws of God, by which they are to govern themselves and their kingdoms.
Pervert the judgment of any of the afflicted; which may ...
Forget the law the laws of God, by which they are to govern themselves and their kingdoms.
Pervert the judgment of any of the afflicted; which may easily be done by a drunken judge, because drunkenness deprives a man of the use of reason; by which alone men can distinguish between right and wrong, and withal stirs up those passions which incline him both to precipitation and partiality.

Poole: Pro 31:6 - -- Unto him which is to be understood comparatively, to him rather than to kings, partly because he needs a liberal draught of it more than kings do; an...
Unto him which is to be understood comparatively, to him rather than to kings, partly because he needs a liberal draught of it more than kings do; and principally because if it proceed to excess, in him it is only a private inconvenience, but in kings it is a public mischief and grievance.
Ready to perish sorely afflicted and overwhelmed with sorrow, as it is explained in the following words; for such need a cordial.

Poole: Pro 31:7 - -- For wine, moderately used, allayeth men’ s cares and fears, and cheereth their spirits, Psa 104:15 .
For wine, moderately used, allayeth men’ s cares and fears, and cheereth their spirits, Psa 104:15 .

Poole: Pro 31:8 - -- Open thy mouth speak freely and impartially, as becomes a king and judge to do, for the dumb; for such as cannot speak in their own cause, either thr...
Open thy mouth speak freely and impartially, as becomes a king and judge to do, for the dumb; for such as cannot speak in their own cause, either through ignorance and infirmity, or because of the dread of their more potent adversaries, or of the majesty of the king sitting in judgment.
Such as are appointed to destruction who without such succour from the judge are like to be utterly ruined, whom therefore both justice and charity oblige thee to preserve.

Poole: Pro 31:10 - -- A virtuous woman whom he may take to wife. Such a person is hardly to be found. Compare Ecc 7:28 . And here he lays down several characters or qualif...
A virtuous woman whom he may take to wife. Such a person is hardly to be found. Compare Ecc 7:28 . And here he lays down several characters or qualifications of an excellent wife, which are here delivered in alphabetical order, each verse beginning with a several and the succeeding letter of the Hebrew alphabet; which method is used in some, and but in a few places of Scripture, to oblige us to the more diligent consideration and careful remembrance of them, as things of more than ordinary importance. And such this matter is, partly because the good or bad education even of private families, which depends much upon the mother’ s qualifications, hath a mighty influence upon the welfare or misery of commonwealths; and partly because the right education of royal families is in itself a very public blessing, and therefore it is the interest and happiness of whole kingdoms that their kings should have virtuous and pious wives.

Poole: Pro 31:11 - -- Doth safely trust in her for the prudent and faithful management of all his domestic affairs, which are committed to her care.
So that he shall have...
Doth safely trust in her for the prudent and faithful management of all his domestic affairs, which are committed to her care.
So that he shall have no need of spoil the sense is either,
1. He shall want no necessary provisions for his family, which are sometimes called spoil, or prey, as below, Pro 31:15 Psa 111:5 Luk 11:22 . Or,
2. He shall not need to use indirect and unlawful courses to get wealth, by cheating or oppressing his subjects or others, as princes have oft done to maintain the luxury of their wives, and as Solomon himself afterwards did, of which see on 1Ki 12:4,10,11 , because all shall be abundantly supplied to him by her providence.

She will improve, and not waste his estate.

Poole: Pro 31:13 - -- She seeketh wool and flax that she may find employment for her servants, and not suffer them to spend all their time unprofitably in ease and idlenes...
She seeketh wool and flax that she may find employment for her servants, and not suffer them to spend all their time unprofitably in ease and idleness.
Worketh willingly with her hands she encourageth them to work by her example; which was a common practice among princesses in those first and purest ages of the world. Not that it is the duty of kings and queens to use manual or mechanical operations, but that it is the duty of all persons, the greatest not excepted, to improve all their talents, and particularly their time, which is one of the noblest of them, one way or other to the service of that God to whom they must give an account, and to the good of that community to which they are related and obliged.

Poole: Pro 31:14 - -- By the sale of her homespun commodities she purchaseth the choicest goods which come from far countries.
By the sale of her homespun commodities she purchaseth the choicest goods which come from far countries.

Poole: Pro 31:15 - -- While it is yet night early in the morning, to redeem thee.
Giveth meat distributeth all her necessary provisions.
A portion either,
1. Of work,...
While it is yet night early in the morning, to redeem thee.
Giveth meat distributeth all her necessary provisions.
A portion either,
1. Of work, which she allots to them. Or rather,
2. Of provisions for them; for so this word is used, Gen 47:22 Lev 10:13,14 Pr 30:8 , and no where, to my remembrance, of an allotment of work. And so this clause agrees best with the former, expressing the same thing in other words, according to the manner.

Poole: Pro 31:16 - -- She considereth a field whether it be fit for her use, and of a reasonable price, and how she may purchase it. This excludes the rashness, as her pro...
She considereth a field whether it be fit for her use, and of a reasonable price, and how she may purchase it. This excludes the rashness, as her proceeding to
buy it excludes the inconstancy, which is oft incident to that sex.
With the fruit of her hands with the effects of her diligence,
she planteth a vineyard she improveth the land to the best advantage.

Poole: Pro 31:17 - -- She girdeth her loins with strength she useth great diligence and expedition in her employment; for which end men in those times used to gird up thei...
She girdeth her loins with strength she useth great diligence and expedition in her employment; for which end men in those times used to gird up their long and loose garments about their loins.
Strengtheneth her arms putteth forth her utmost strength in her business.

Poole: Pro 31:18 - -- She perceiveth that her merchandise is good she finds great comfort and good success in her labours.
Her candle goeth not out by night; which is not...
She perceiveth that her merchandise is good she finds great comfort and good success in her labours.
Her candle goeth not out by night; which is not to be taken strictly but only signifies her unwearied care and industry, which is oft expressed by labouring day and night , or continually .

Poole: Pro 31:19 - -- By her own example she provoketh her servants to labour. And although in these later and more delicate and luxurious times, such mean employments ar...
By her own example she provoketh her servants to labour. And although in these later and more delicate and luxurious times, such mean employments are grown out of fashion among great persons, yet they were not so in former ages, neither in other countries, nor in this land; whence all women unmarried are to this day called in the language of our law spinsters .

Poole: Pro 31:20 - -- To relieve their necessities Her designs are generous and noble; for she labours not only to supply her own and her household necessities, or to supp...
To relieve their necessities Her designs are generous and noble; for she labours not only to supply her own and her household necessities, or to support her own state, much less to feed her pride and luxury, but that she may have wherewith to supply the wants of others who crave or need her assistance; which also procures God’ s blessing upon her husband, and children, and whole family, to whom, by this means, she brings both honour and advantage.

Poole: Pro 31:21 - -- She is not afraid of the snow or of any injuries of the weather.
All her household are clothed with scarlet she hath provided enough, not only for ...
She is not afraid of the snow or of any injuries of the weather.
All her household are clothed with scarlet she hath provided enough, not only for their necessity and defence against cold and other inconveniences, which is here supposed, but also for their delight and ornament; so that not only herself, and husband, and children, but some of the better rank of her servants, wear scarlet; which was more cheap and familiar in those times and countries than now it is with us. Or, as it is rendered in our margin, and by divers others, are clothed with double garments , which is necessary and customary in cold seasons.

Poole: Pro 31:22 - -- Coverings of tapestry for the furniture of her house.
Silk and purple which was very agreeable to her high quality, though it doth not justify that...
Coverings of tapestry for the furniture of her house.
Silk and purple which was very agreeable to her high quality, though it doth not justify that luxury in attire which is now usual among persons of far lower ranks, both for wealth and dignity.

Poole: Pro 31:23 - -- Known observed and respected, not only for his own worth, but for his wife’ s sake; not only for those rich ornaments which by her care and dili...
Known observed and respected, not only for his own worth, but for his wife’ s sake; not only for those rich ornaments which by her care and diligence she provides for him, which others of his brethren, by reason of their wives’ sloth or luxury, are not able to procure, but also for his wisdom in choosing, and his happiness in enjoying, so excellent a wife, by whose prudent care, in the management of his domestic concerns, he hath perfect freedom wholly to attend upon public affairs.
Sitteth among the elders of the land in counsel or judgment.

Poole: Pro 31:24 - -- Curiously wrought of linen, and gold, or other precious materials, Jer 13:1 Dan 10:5 , which in those parts were used both by men, 2Sa 20:8 , and by...

Poole: Pro 31:25 - -- Strength not strength of body, which is no ornament of that sex, save only as she preserves her health and strength by sobriety and exercise, which o...
Strength not strength of body, which is no ornament of that sex, save only as she preserves her health and strength by sobriety and exercise, which other men waste by intemperance and idleness; but strength of mind, magnanimity, courage, resolution, activity.
Honour either,
1. Her prudent, and pious, and amiable behaviour, in which true honour principally consists. Or,
2. That good name and honourable esteem which she hath gained amongst all that know her by her virtuous disposition and carnage.
Her clothing these, and not her rich garments mentioned before, are her great ornament and glory.
She shall rejoice in thee to come: the sense is either,
1. In her old age she reaps the comfort and benefit of her youthful labours, Or rather,
2. She lives in constant tranquillity of mind, and a confident and cheerful expectation of all future events, how calamitous soever, partly because she hath laid in provisions for a rainy day, and chiefly because she hath the comfortable remembrance of a well-spent life, and, which follows thereupon, a just confidence in God’ s gracious providence and promises made to such persons.

Poole: Pro 31:26 - -- She openeth her mouth with wisdom she is neither sullenly silent, nor full of vain and impertinent talk, as many women are, but speaks directly and p...
She openeth her mouth with wisdom she is neither sullenly silent, nor full of vain and impertinent talk, as many women are, but speaks directly and piously, as occasion offereth itself.
In her tongue is the law of kindness her speeches are not froward and provoking, as those of foolish women frequently are, but most obliging and amiable, as being guided by wisdom and grace, and not by inordinate lusts and passions. And this practice is called
a law in her tongue because it is constant and customary, and proceeds from an inward and powerful principle of true wisdom, which in a manner necessitates and constrains her to discourse like herself, so that in a moral sense she cannot speak otherwise, unless she offer violence to herself, or the nature of the thing require sharp and severe expressions.

Poole: Pro 31:27 - -- She looketh well to the ways of her household she diligently observeth the management and progress of her domestic business, and the whole carriage a...
She looketh well to the ways of her household she diligently observeth the management and progress of her domestic business, and the whole carriage and conversation of her children and servants; whereby also he intimates that she spends not her thee in gadding abroad to other houses, and idle discourses about the concerns of other persons, as the manner of many women is, but is wholly intent upon her own house and proper business.
Eateth not the bread of idleness that which is got by idleness, or without labour.

Poole: Pro 31:28 - -- Her children whose testimony is the more considerable, because they have been constant eye-witnesses of her whole carriage, and therefore must have s...
Her children whose testimony is the more considerable, because they have been constant eye-witnesses of her whole carriage, and therefore must have seen her misdemeanours, if there had been any, as well as her virtues.
Arise up either,
1. In token of reverence to her, which agrees not to the following clause, wherein the same phrase is understood concerning her husband. Or rather,
2. That they may seriously and industriously apply themselves to the work of setting forth her praises, as this phrase is used, Gen 37:25 Exo 2:17 , and oft elsewhere. For sitting being commonly the posture of idleness, men that set about any work are said to rise in order thereunto.
Call her blessed both for her own excellency, and for many happy fruits which they have gathered from her wise and godly education.
He praiseth her in the following words.

Poole: Pro 31:29 - -- Daughters daughters of men, i.e. women, so called also Gen 34:1 Eze 30:18 .
Thou excellest them all: he esteems it but just that his praises should...

Poole: Pro 31:30 - -- Favour comeliness; or, as the next clause explains it, beauty, which commonly gives women favour or acceptation with those who behold them. These are...
Favour comeliness; or, as the next clause explains it, beauty, which commonly gives women favour or acceptation with those who behold them. These are the words either,
1. Of her husband, continuing to praise her. Or,
2. Of Bathsheba, giving the sum of what she had said in few words.
Is deceitful partly, because it gives a false representation of the person, being ofttimes a cover to a most deformed soul, and to many evil and hateful qualities; partly, because it doth not give a man that content and satisfaction which at first view he promised to himself from it; and partly, because it is soon lost, not only by death, but by many diseases and contingencies.
That feareth the Lord which character is here mentioned either,
1. As the crown of all her perfections. Or,
2. As a key to understand the foregoing passage of that wisdom, and fidelity, and diligence, which proceeded from or is accompanied with the fear of God.
PBC -> Pro 31:8
Haydock: Pro 31:1 - -- Lamuel. This name signifies, God with him; and is supposed to be one of the names of Solomon. (Challoner) ---
Grotius would explain it of Ezechi...
Lamuel. This name signifies, God with him; and is supposed to be one of the names of Solomon. (Challoner) ---
Grotius would explain it of Ezechias. But why should we abandon the tradition of both Jews and Christians? ---
Mother; Bethsabee, who it seems was inspired, unless she received these maxims from Nathan. Solomon always speaks of her with the utmost respect, as a prudent mother may have the greatest influence over the tender minds of her children, chap. i. 8., and xxiii. 25.

Haydock: Pro 31:2 - -- Vows. She seems unable to express her concern for him when he first mounted the throne, and shewed her the greatest reverence, 3 Kings ii. 19.
Vows. She seems unable to express her concern for him when he first mounted the throne, and shewed her the greatest reverence, 3 Kings ii. 19.

Haydock: Pro 31:3 - -- Women. This would destroy thy health, and tend to impoverish the kingdom. ---
Kings, by injustice and ambition. (Calmet)
Women. This would destroy thy health, and tend to impoverish the kingdom. ---
Kings, by injustice and ambition. (Calmet)

Haydock: Pro 31:4 - -- Give. Septuagint, "Do all with counsel. By advice drink wine. Lords are inclined to anger; let them not drink wine." (Haydock) ---
Solomon took ...
Give. Septuagint, "Do all with counsel. By advice drink wine. Lords are inclined to anger; let them not drink wine." (Haydock) ---
Solomon took this advice, Ecclesiastes ii. 3.

Haydock: Pro 31:5 - -- Poor. Solon condemned to death, at Athens, the prince who should get drunk; and the Areopagites excluded from their assembly a judge who had dined i...
Poor. Solon condemned to death, at Athens, the prince who should get drunk; and the Areopagites excluded from their assembly a judge who had dined in a tavern. (Laertius 1.; Atheneus xiii. 2.)

Haydock: Pro 31:6 - -- Drink. Hebrew shecar, particularly palm-wine. ---
Are sad. Hebrew, "perish," being sentenced to die; (Mark xv. 23., and Amos ii. 8.) or, who gr...
Drink. Hebrew shecar, particularly palm-wine. ---
Are sad. Hebrew, "perish," being sentenced to die; (Mark xv. 23., and Amos ii. 8.) or, who grieve and mourn for one deceased. On such occasions no food was prepared in the house, but the friends supplied what was necessary, and went to eat and drink with the afflicted, Ecclesiastes vii. 3.

More. Not that intoxication is permitted even to them.

Haydock: Pro 31:8 - -- Pass through life, or the country. (Calmet) ---
Septuagint, "Open thy mouth and judge righteously. Render justice to the poor and weak." (Haydock...
Pass through life, or the country. (Calmet) ---
Septuagint, "Open thy mouth and judge righteously. Render justice to the poor and weak." (Haydock) ---
Doctrine is best received by those who are more ready to hear than to speak. (Worthington)

Haydock: Pro 31:10 - -- Who. The following verses are in alphabetical order. They contain a grand eulogy of Bethsabee, who repented, or of a perfect matron. (Calmet) ---
...
Who. The following verses are in alphabetical order. They contain a grand eulogy of Bethsabee, who repented, or of a perfect matron. (Calmet) ---
Such are rare, though they may be found. (Worthington) ---
Valiant; industrious. ---
Price. Formerly people bought their wives. (Calmet) ---
Is. Hebrew, "is far above riches (Protestants; Haydock) or pearls," Lamentations iv. 7.

Haydock: Pro 31:13 - -- Hands, with skill and industry, (Calmet) or "willingness." (Hebrew) (Menochius) ---
Ladies of the highest quality formerly employed themselves in ...
Hands, with skill and industry, (Calmet) or "willingness." (Hebrew) (Menochius) ---
Ladies of the highest quality formerly employed themselves in this manner, like Penelope. Alexander, Augustus, and Charlemagne wore garments, which their sisters or wives had wrought. (Curtius 5.) (Suetonius 64.) (Eginhard.)

Haydock: Pro 31:14 - -- Bread; all that is used for meat and drink. Septuagint, "riches." Grabe, "livelihood:" Greek: Bion. (Haydock)
Bread; all that is used for meat and drink. Septuagint, "riches." Grabe, "livelihood:" Greek: Bion. (Haydock)

Haydock: Pro 31:15 - -- Night, or early in the morning, as soon as the night was over; de nocte. Hebrew, "while it is yet night." (Haydock) ---
Extreme vigilance is req...
Night, or early in the morning, as soon as the night was over; de nocte. Hebrew, "while it is yet night." (Haydock) ---
Extreme vigilance is required of those who direct others. "The master must be first up, and last in bed." (Cato v.)

Haydock: Pro 31:16 - -- Considered. This conduct is suggested by prudence. (Calmet) ---
Cato (Rust. 2.) says, "Do not go only once round the field," &c.
Considered. This conduct is suggested by prudence. (Calmet) ---
Cato (Rust. 2.) says, "Do not go only once round the field," &c.

Night, during a great part of which she will work.

Haydock: Pro 31:19 - -- Strong things, "becoming" (Septuagint) her station. (Calmet) ---
Spindle. She purposes and begins well, trusting in God for perfection and a rewa...
Strong things, "becoming" (Septuagint) her station. (Calmet) ---
Spindle. She purposes and begins well, trusting in God for perfection and a reward. (Worthington)

Haydock: Pro 31:21 - -- Domestics. Hebrew, "house is clothed in purple," which may be understood of the domestics, though it seems more probably to refer to her husband and...
Domestics. Hebrew, "house is clothed in purple," which may be understood of the domestics, though it seems more probably to refer to her husband and children.

Haydock: Pro 31:22 - -- Tapestry, for the beds and floor. ---
Linens, or cotton; byssus, Exodus xxv. 4.
Tapestry, for the beds and floor. ---
Linens, or cotton; byssus, Exodus xxv. 4.

Gates. Chaldean, "provinces." The rich were chosen for judges. (Calmet)

Haydock: Pro 31:24 - -- The Chanaanite, the merchant; for Chanaanite, in Hebrew, signifies a merchant. (Challoner) ---
The Phœnicians travelled into all countries. Tra...
The Chanaanite, the merchant; for Chanaanite, in Hebrew, signifies a merchant. (Challoner) ---
The Phœnicians travelled into all countries. Traffic was not then deemed a discredit, even to kings. ---
Girdles were worn both by men and women, and were very costly, insomuch that (Calmet) the kings of Persia assigned cities to furnish their wives with them. (Atheneus i. in Antylla.) ---
They who practise and teach the law may be said to buy and sell. (Worthington)

Haydock: Pro 31:25 - -- Clothing: it is very beautiful, or wisdom and virtue surround her. ---
Day. She fears not death, (Calmet) or future distress of hunger, &c. (Jans...
Clothing: it is very beautiful, or wisdom and virtue surround her. ---
Day. She fears not death, (Calmet) or future distress of hunger, &c. (Jansenius)

Haydock: Pro 31:26 - -- Tongue. She is ever bent on doing good. (Haydock) ---
Very different from many of her sex, who are taken up with vanity and complaints. (Calmet)
Tongue. She is ever bent on doing good. (Haydock) ---
Very different from many of her sex, who are taken up with vanity and complaints. (Calmet)

Idle, out of a sense of duty, and not though avarice.

Her. They were best able to judge of her merit.

Haydock: Pro 31:30 - -- Lord. Hitherto natural qualifications appear: but to these the Christian matron must add sincere piety: and thus Solomon completes the character of ...
Lord. Hitherto natural qualifications appear: but to these the Christian matron must add sincere piety: and thus Solomon completes the character of his mother, (Calmet) who had given him such excellent instructions, or of any accomplished woman. Outward beauty soon (Haydock) decays; but the fear of God is more deserving of praise. (Worthington)
Gill -> Pro 31:1; Pro 31:2; Pro 31:3; Pro 31:4; Pro 31:5; Pro 31:6; Pro 31:7; Pro 31:8; Pro 31:9; Pro 31:10; Pro 31:11; Pro 31:12; Pro 31:13; Pro 31:14; Pro 31:15; Pro 31:16; Pro 31:17; Pro 31:18; Pro 31:19; Pro 31:20; Pro 31:21; Pro 31:22; Pro 31:23; Pro 31:24; Pro 31:25; Pro 31:26; Pro 31:27; Pro 31:28; Pro 31:29; Pro 31:30
Gill: Pro 31:1 - -- The words of King Lemuel,.... Not what were spoken by him, but what were spoken to him; or declaring what his mother said, as what follows shows; of t...
The words of King Lemuel,.... Not what were spoken by him, but what were spoken to him; or declaring what his mother said, as what follows shows; of this king we have no account elsewhere under this name. Grotius thinks that King Hezekiah, whose mother Abijah, the daughter of Zechariah, whom he supposes to be a wise man, from whom she had learned much, instructed her son in the following manner; but gives no other reason for this conjecture but that this chapter follows the collection of proverbs made by the men of Hezekiah; but they are expressly said to be Solomon's, and the words of Agur more immediately follow them; and besides Hezekiah does not appear ever to be addicted to the vices this prince was; much more probable is the conjecture of Bishop Patrick, that he was a prince of another country, perhaps in Chaldea, since a Chaldee word is three times used in his mother's address to him, and another word in a Chaldee termination; and he supposes his mother to be a Jewish lady, that taught her son the lessons herein contained. But the general sense of Jewish and Christian writers is, that Solomon himself is meant; whose name Lemuel is either a corruption of his name Solomon, a fond pretty name his mother Bathsheba gave him when young, and he thought fit to write it just as his mother spoke it; as mothers often do give such broken names to their children in fond affection to them: or it was another name of his, as it appears he had more than one; it signifies "to God", one that was devoted to him, as he was by his parents and by himself; or one that belonged to God, was his, as Solomon was; he was beloved of God, and therefore called Jedidiah, 2Sa 12:24; one to whom God was a father, and he a son to him; and he was chosen and appointed by him to succeed his father David in the kingdom, 2Sa 7:13. Hillerus a makes the word to signify "over against God", or "before the face of the first", or of God and was a type of the "angel of faces", or of God's presence, Isa 63:9;
the prophecy that his mother taught him; either in his youth, or when he was come to the throne; to whom she had access, and with whom she used freedom; and particularly when she saw he was inclined unto, or going into, the vices she cautions him against. Her instruction is called a "prophecy", because she delivered it on a foresight of the sins her son would be tempted with, and liable to fall into; and this foresight was either through her natural sagacity, or under a spirit of prophecy; or rather it is so called, because any wise saying, or doctrine of moment and importance, and especially if it was by divine inspiration, was so called; see Pro 30:1; as Solomon tells us what his father David taught him, so here what his mother Bathsheba instructed him in; and it would have been well if he had taken the advice she gave him, and he gave to his son; see Pro 4:3.

Gill: Pro 31:2 - -- What, my son?.... What shall I call thee? though thou art a king, can I address thee in more suitable language, or use a more endearing appellative th...
What, my son?.... What shall I call thee? though thou art a king, can I address thee in more suitable language, or use a more endearing appellative than this, and what follows? permit me, thy mother, to speak unto thee as my son: and what shall I say to thee? I want words, I want wisdom; O that I knew what to say to thee, that would be proper and profitable; or what is it I am about to say to thee? things of the greatest moment and importance, and therefore listen to me; and so the manner of speaking is designed to excite attention: or what shall I ask of thee? no part of thy kingdom, or any share in the government of it; only this favour, to avoid the sins unbecoming a prince, and to do the duty of a king, later mentioned. The Targum and Syriac version represent her as exclaiming, reproving, and threatening; as, Alas my son! is this the life thou designest to live, to give up thyself to wine and women? fie upon it, my son, is this becoming thy birth, education, and dignity? is this the fruit of all the pains I have taken in bringing thee up? consider the unbecoming part thou art acting;
and what, the son of my womb? whom I bore in sorrow, brought forth in pain, and took so much care and trouble to bring up in a religious way, and form for usefulness in church and state? not an adopted son, but my own flesh and blood; and therefore what I say must be thought to proceed from pure affection to thee, and solely for thy good; see Isa 49:15;
and what, the son of my vows? whom I asked of God, and promised to give up to him again, and did; for which reason she might call him Lemuel, as Hannah called her son Samuel, for a like reason, 1Sa 1:28; a son for whom she had put up many prayers, for his temporal and spiritual good; and on whose account she had made many vows, promises, and resolutions, that she would do so and so, should she be so happy as to bring him into the world, and bring him up to man's estate, and see him settled on the throne of Israel.

Gill: Pro 31:3 - -- Give not thy strength unto women,.... Strength of body, which is weakened by an excessive use of venery b with a multiplicity of women; see, Pro 5:9; ...
Give not thy strength unto women,.... Strength of body, which is weakened by an excessive use of venery b with a multiplicity of women; see, Pro 5:9; and strength of mind, reason, and wisdom, which is impaired by conversation with such persons; whereby time is consumed and lost, which should be spent in the improvement of knowledge: or "thy riches", as the Septuagint and Arabic versions, thy substance, which harlots devour, and who bring a man to a piece of bread, as the prodigal was, Pro 6:26; and even drain the coffers of kings and princes;
nor thy ways to that which destroyeth kings; do not give thy mind to take such courses, and pursue such ways and methods, as bring ruin on kings and kingdoms, as conversation with harlots does; see Pro 7:26. Some think the design of this advice is to warn against any ambitious views of enlarging his dominions by invading neighbouring countries, and making war with neighbouring kings, to the ruin of them; but the former sense seems best. The Targum is,
"nor thy ways to the daughters of kings.''
Solomon was given to women, who proved very pernicious to him, 1Ki 11:1. Some render it, "which destroyeth counsel" c; for whoredom weakens the mind as well as the body.

Gill: Pro 31:4 - -- It is not for kings, O Lemuel,.... It is not fit for them, it is very unbecoming them; it is dishonourable to them, to such as Lemuel was, or was lik...
It is not for kings, O Lemuel,.... It is not fit for them, it is very unbecoming them; it is dishonourable to them, to such as Lemuel was, or was likely to be; or far be it from kings, let no such thing be do ne by them, nor by thee;
it is not for kings to drink wine; nor for princes strong drink; it is lawful for kings to drink wine in a moderate manner, and for princes, counsellors, and judges, to drink strong drink; meaning not such as is made of malt, which in those times was not used; but of honey, dates, pomegranates, and such like things; but then it was very unbecoming for either of them to drink any of these to excess; it is very disgraceful to any man to drink immoderately, to make a beast of himself, and much more a king or judge, who, of all men, ought to be grave and sober; both that they may perform their office well, and maintain the grandeur and dignity of it, which otherwise would become useless and despicable, yea, pernicious, as follows. Solomon, notwithstanding this advice, gave himself unto wine as well as women, Ecc 2:3. The Targum is,
"take care of kings, O Lemuel, of kings who drink wine, and of princes that drink strong drink.''
So the Syriac version, keep no company with them, nor follow their example; see Ecc 10:17; The last clause may be rendered, "nor for princes to say, where is strong drink" d? where is it to be had? where is the best? as drunkards do; which is according to the marginal reading; but the "Cetib", or writing, is

Gill: Pro 31:5 - -- Lest they drink, and forget the law,.... The law of God by Moses, which the kings of Israel were obliged to write a copy of, and read over daily, to i...
Lest they drink, and forget the law,.... The law of God by Moses, which the kings of Israel were obliged to write a copy of, and read over daily, to imprint it on their minds, that they might never forget it, but always govern according to it, Deu 17:18; or the law of their ancestors, or what was made by themselves, which through intemperance may be forgotten; for this sin stupefies the mind and hurts the memory, and makes men forgetful;
and pervert the judgment of any of the afflicted; a king on the throne, or a judge on the bench, drunk, must be very unfit for his office; since he must be incapable of attending to the cause before him, of taking in the true state of the case; and, as he forgets the law, which is his rule of judgment, so he will mistake the point in debate, and put one thing for another; and "change" g and alter, as the word signifies, the judgment of the afflicted and injured person, and give the cause against him which should be for him; and therefore it is of great consequence that kings and judges should he sober. A certain woman, being undeservedly condemned by Philip king of Macedon, when drunk, said,
"I would appeal to Philip, but it shall be when he is sober;''
which aroused him; and, more diligently examining the cause, he gave, a more righteous sentence h.

Gill: Pro 31:6 - -- Give strong drink unto him that is ready to perish,.... Thou, O Lemuel, and other kings and judges, rather than drink strong drink yourselves, least t...
Give strong drink unto him that is ready to perish,.... Thou, O Lemuel, and other kings and judges, rather than drink strong drink yourselves, least to excess; give it out of your great abundance and liberality to poor persons in starving circumstances, who must perish, unless relieved; it will do them good, moderately used; and should they drink too freely, which they ought not, yet it would not be attended with such bad consequences as if kings and princes should;
and wine to those that be of heavy heart; of melancholy dispositions, under gloomy apprehensions of things; pressed with the weight of their affliction and poverty: or, "bitter in soul" i; such as God has dealt bitterly with, as Naomi says was her case, and therefore called her own name Marah, which signifies bitter; of such a sorrowful spirit, and one thus bitter in soul, was Hannah; and so Job, and others; persons in great affliction and distress, to whom life itself is bitter; see Rth 1:20; now wine to such is very exhilarating and cheering; see Jdg 9:13.

Gill: Pro 31:7 - -- Let him drink, and forget his poverty,.... Which has been very pressing upon him, and afflicting to him; let him drink till he is cheerful, and forget...
Let him drink, and forget his poverty,.... Which has been very pressing upon him, and afflicting to him; let him drink till he is cheerful, and forgets that he is a poor man; however, so far forgets as not to be troubled about it, and have any anxious thoughts how he must have food and raiment k;
and remember his misery no more; the anguish of his mind because of his straitened circumstances; or "his labour" l, as it may be rendered; so the Septuagint and Arabic versions, the labour of his body, the pains he takes to get a little food for himself and family. The Targum is,
"and remember his torn garments no more;''
his rags, a part of his poverty. Such virtue wine may have for the present to dispel care, than which it is said nothing can be better m; and to induce a forgetfulness of misery, poverty, and of other troubles. So the mixed wine Helena gave to Telemachus, called Nepenthe, which when drunk, had such an effect as to remove sorrow, and to bring on forgetfulness of past evils n; and of which Diodorus Siculus o and Pliny p speak as of such use. The ancients used to call Bacchus, the god of wine, the son of forgetfulness; but Plutarch q thought he should rather be called the father of it. Some, by those that are "ready to perish", understand condemned malefactors, just going to die; and think the Jewish practice of giving wine mingled with myrrh or frankincense, or a stupefying potion to such that they might not be sensible of their misery r, such as the Jews are supposed to otter to Christ, Mar 15:23; is grounded upon this passage; but the sense given is best: the whole may be applied in a spiritual manner to such persons who see themselves in a "perishing", state and condition; whose consciences are loaded with guilt, whose souls are filled with a sense of wrath, have a sight of sin, but not of a Saviour; behold a broken, cursing, damning law, the flaming sword of justice turning every way, but no righteousness to answer for them, no peace, no pardon, no stoning sacrifice but look upon themselves lost and undone: and so of "heavy hearts"; have a spirit of heaviness in them, a heaviness upon their spirits: a load of guilt on them too heavy to bear, so that they cannot look up: or are "bitter in soul"; sin is made bitter to them, and they weep bitterly for it: now to such persons "wine", in a spiritual sense, should be given; the Gospel, which is as the best wine, that, goes down sweetly, should be preached unto them; they should be told of the love of God and Christ to poor sinners, which is better than wine; and the blessings of grace should be set before them, as peace, pardon, righteousness, and eternal life, by Christ, the milk and wine to be had without money and without price; of these they should drink, or participate of, by faith, freely, largely, and to full satisfaction; by means of which they will "forget" their spiritual "poverty", and consider themselves as possessed of the riches of grace, as rich in faith, and heirs of a kingdom; and so remember no more their miserable estate by nature, and the anguish of their souls in the view of that; unless it be to magnify and adore the riches of God's grace in their deliverance.

Gill: Pro 31:8 - -- Open thy mouth for the dumb,.... Not who are naturally so, but who cannot speak in their own behalf, either through want of elocution, or knowledge of...
Open thy mouth for the dumb,.... Not who are naturally so, but who cannot speak in their own behalf, either through want of elocution, or knowledge of the laws; or who are bashful, timorous, and fearful, being overawed by the majesty of a court of judicature, or by their prosecutors; or who, as they have not a tongue, so not a purse, to speak for them, the fatherless and the widow; which latter has her name, in the Hebrew language, from dumbness. Here Lemuel's mother advises him to open his mouth freely, readily, boldly, and intrepidly, and plead for such persons. Even
in the cause of all such as are appointed to destruction; whose destruction is resolved on by their accusers and prosecutors; and who are in danger of it, being charged with capital crimes; unless some persons of wisdom, power, and authority, interpose on their behalf. It may be rendered, "in the cause of all the children of change", or "passing away" s; the children of the world, which passeth away with all things in it, as Kimchi; or orphans, whose help passeth away, as Jarchi; or rather strangers, as others, who pass from place to place and whose state and condition is liable to many changes who may be ignorant of the laws of the country where they are, and may stand in need of persons to plead for them.

Gill: Pro 31:9 - -- Open thy mouth, judge righteously,.... Having heard the cause, pronounce a righteous sentence; deliver it freely and impartially, with all readiness a...
Open thy mouth, judge righteously,.... Having heard the cause, pronounce a righteous sentence; deliver it freely and impartially, with all readiness and boldness, not caring for the censures of wicked and unjust men;
and plead the cause of the poor and needy; who are oppressed by the rich, cannot plead for themselves, nor fee others to plead for them; do thou do it freely and faithfully. Thus as Lemuel's mother cautions him against women and wine, she advises him to do the duties of his office in administering impartial justice to all, and particularly in being the advocate and judge of the indigent and distressed.

Gill: Pro 31:10 - -- Who can find a virtuous woman,.... This part of the chapter is disjoined from the rest in the Septuagint and Arabic versions; and Huetius t thinks it ...
Who can find a virtuous woman,.... This part of the chapter is disjoined from the rest in the Septuagint and Arabic versions; and Huetius t thinks it is a composition of some other person, and not Lemuel's mother, whose words he supposes end at Pro 31:9; but it is generally thought that what follows to the end of the chapter is a continuance of her words, in which she describes a person as a fit wife for her son. Some think that Bathsheba gave the materials, the sum and substance of this beautiful description, to Solomon; who put it in the artificial form it is, each verse beginning with a letter of the Hebrew alphabet in order till the whole is gone through; though rather it seems to be a composition of Solomon's, describing the character and virtues of his mother Bathsheba. But, be this as it will, the description is drawn up to such a pitch, and wrote in such strong lines, as cannot agree with any of the daughters of fallen Adam, literally understood; not with Bathsheba, the mother of Solomon; nor with the Virgin Mary, as the Papists, who, they fancy, was immaculate and sinless, of which there is no proof; nor indeed with any other; for though some parts of the description may meet in some, and others in others, yet not all in one; wherefore the mystical and spiritual sense of the whole must be sought after. Some by the "virtuous woman" understand the sensitive soul, subject to the understanding and reason, as Gersom; others the Scriptures, as Lyra, which lead to virtue, contain much riches in them, far above rubies; in which men may safely confide as the rule of their faith and practice; and will do them good, and not evil, continually. Others, "Wisdom", who in the beginning of this book is represented as a woman making provision for her household, and said to be more precious than rubies; and is to be understood of Christ; which I should have readily given into, but that this virtuous woman is said to have a husband, Pro 31:11; which cannot agree with Christ, who is himself the husband of his church and people, which church of his, I think, is here meant; nor is this a novel sense of the passage, but what is given by many of the ancient Christian writers, as Ambrose, Bede, and others; and whoever compares Pro 31:28, with Son 6:8, will easily see the agreement; and will be led to observe that Solomon wrote both, and had a view to one and the same person, the church of Christ, who is often represented by a "woman", Isa 54:1; a woman grown and marriageable, as the Gospel church may be truly said to be, in comparison of the Jewish church, which was the church in infancy; a woman actually married to Christ; a woman fruitful, bringing forth many children to him; a woman beautiful, especially in his eyes, with whom she is the fairest among women; a woman, the weaker vessel, unable to do anything without him, yet everything through him: a "virtuous" one, inviolably chaste in her love and affection to Christ, her husband; steadfast in her adherence, to him by faith, as her Lord and Saviour; incorrupt in doctrine, sincere and spiritual in worship, retaining the purity of discipline, and holiness of life; and holding the mystery of faith in a pure conscience: or a "woman of strength" u, valour, and courage, as the word signifies, when used of men, 1Sa 16:18; The church is militant, has many enemies, and these powerful and mighty, as well as cunning and crafty; yet, with all their power and policy, cannot overcome her; the gates of hell cannot prevail against her; she engages with them all, and is more than a conqueror over them; she is of great spiritual strength, which she, has from Christ, to fight the Lord's battles, to withstand every enemy, to exercise grace, and do every good work; and all her true members persevere to the end: or a "woman of riches" w; that gets wealth and, riches by her wisdom and prudence, so Aben Ezra; a woman of fortune, as is commonly said: such is the church of Christ, through his unsearchable riches communicated to her; riches of grace she now possesses, and riches of glory she is entitled to. But "who can find" such an one? there is but one to be found x; though there are many particular churches, there is but one church of the firstborn, consisting of God's elect, of which Christ is the head and husband, Son 6:9; and there is but one that could find her: even her surety, Saviour, and Redeemer; compare with this Rev 5:3. This supposes her lost, as she was in Adam; Christ's seeking of her, as he did in redemption, and does in effectual calling; and who perfectly knows her, and all her members, and where they are; and whom he finds out, and bestows on them the blessings of grace and goodness;
for her price is far above rubies; showing the value Christ her husband puts upon her, the esteem she is had in by him; who reckons her as his portion and inheritance; as preferable to the purest gold, and choicest silver; as his peculiar treasure; as his jewels, and more valuable than the most precious stones: this appears by his undertaking for her; by doing and suffering what he has on her account; the price he has paid for her is far above rubies; she is bought with a price, but not with corruptible things, as silver and gold, but with the precious blood of Christ; the ransom price paid for her is himself, who is more precious than rubies, and all the things that can be desired, 1Pe 1:18.

Gill: Pro 31:11 - -- The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her,.... Christ her Maker is her husband, who has asked her in marriage, and has betrothed her to himsel...
The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her,.... Christ her Maker is her husband, who has asked her in marriage, and has betrothed her to himself in righteousness; and of whose chaste love, and inviolable attachment to him, he is fully satisfied, as well as of her fidelity in keeping what he commits unto her; he trusts her with his Gospel and ordinances, which she faithfully retains and observes; and with his children born in her, who are nursed up at her side, to whom she gives the breasts of ordinances, bears them on her sides, and dandles them on her knees, as a tender and careful mother does, Isa 60:4;
so that he shall have no need of spoil; he shall never want any; by means of the word preached in her, prey and spoil shall be taken out of the hands of the mighty, and he shall divide the spoil with them; or have souls snatched out of the hands of Satan, and translated into his kingdom, Isa 53:12. The Septuagint version understands it of the virtuous woman, and not of her husband; "such an one as she shall not want good spoils"; now, prey or spoil sometimes signifies food, as in Psa 111:5; and so Jarchi interprets it here; and then the sense is, she shall not want spiritual provisions; she shall have plenty of them from her husband, who reposes such confidence in her; or shall not want excellent treasures, as the Arabic version, which also understands it of her; such are the word and ordinances, and particularly precious promises, which are more rejoicing than a great spoil, Psa 119:162; and so Ambrose interprets y it of the church, who needs no spoils because she abounds with them, even with the spoils of the world, and of the devil.

Gill: Pro 31:12 - -- She will do him good, and not evil,.... Or, repay good unto him, give him thanks for all the good things bestowed by him on her; will seek his interes...
She will do him good, and not evil,.... Or, repay good unto him, give him thanks for all the good things bestowed by him on her; will seek his interest, and promote his honour and glory to the uttermost; all the good works she does, which she is qualified for, and ready to perform, are all done in his name and strength, and with a view to his glory; nor will she do any evil willingly and knowingly against him, against his truths and ordinances; or that is detrimental to his honour, and prejudicial to his interest, 2Co 13:8;
all the days of her life; through which she desires to serve him in righteousness and true holiness; and to be steadfast and immovable, always abounding in his work, Luk 1:74.

Gill: Pro 31:13 - -- She seeketh wool and flax,.... To get them, in order to spin them, and work them up into garments; she stays not till they are brought to her, and she...
She seeketh wool and flax,.... To get them, in order to spin them, and work them up into garments; she stays not till they are brought to her, and she is pressed to take them; but she seeks after them, which shows her willingness to work, as is after more fully expressed. It was usual in ancient times for great personages to do such works as these, both among the Grecians z and Romans: Lucretia with her maids were found spinning, when her husband Collatinus paid a visit to her from the camp a: Tanaquills, or Caia Caecilia, the wife of King Tarquin, was an excellent spinster of wool b; her wool, with a distaff and spindle, long remained in the temple of Sangus, or Sancus, as Varro c relates: and a garment made by her, wore by Servius Tullius, was reserved in the temple of Fortune; hence it became a custom for maidens to accompany newly married women with a distaff and spindle, with wool upon them d, signifying what they were principally to attend unto; and maidens are advised to follow the example of Minerva, said to be the first that made a web e; and, if they would have her favour, to learn to use the distaff, and to card and spin f: so did the daughters of Minyas, in Ovid g; and the nymphs, in Virgil h. When Alexander the great advised the mother of Darius to use her nieces to such employments, the Persian ladies were in great concern, it being reckoned reproachful with them for such to move their hands to wool; on hearing which, Alexander himself went to her, and told her the clothes he wore were wrought by his sisters i: and the daughters and granddaughters of Augustus Caesar employed themselves in the woollen manufacture by his order k; and he himself usually wore no other garment than what was made at home, by his wife, sister, daughter, and granddaughter l. The Jews have a saying m, that there is no wisdom in a woman but in the distaff; suggesting, that it is her wisdom to mind her spinning, and the affairs of her household: at the Roman marriages, the word "thalassio" was often repeated n, which signified a vessel in which spinning work was put; and this was done to put the bride in mind what her work was to be. Now as to the mystical sense of these words; as of wool outward garments, and of flax linen and inward garments, are made; by the one may be meant external, and by the other internal, acts of religion; both are to be done, and not the one without the other: outward acts of religion are, such as hearing the word, attendance on ordinances, and all good works, which make up a conversation garment that should be kept; and they should be done so as to be seen of men, but not for that reason: and internal acts of religion are, the fear of God, humility, faith, hope, love, and other graces, and the exercises of them, which make up the new man, to be put on as a garment; and these should go together; bodily exercise, without powerful godliness, profiteth little; and pretensions to spirituality and internal religion, without regard to the outward duties of religion, are all vain. Hence Ambrose, on the text, observes that one may say,
"It is enough to worship and serve God in my mind; what need have I to go to church, and visibly mingle with Christians? Such a man would have a linen, without a woollen garment, this woman knew not; she does not commend such works.''
She sought all opportunities of doing good works externally, as believers do; and sought after the kingdom of God, inward godliness, which lies in peace, righteousness, and joy in the Holy Ghost. Not that such garments are to be joined with Christs robe of righteousness, to make up a justifying one; a garment mingled with linen and woollen, in this sense, is not to come upon the saints, Lev 19:19;
and worketh willingly with her hands; or, "with the pleasure of her hands" o; as if her hands took delight in working, as the church and all true believers do; who are made willing in the day of the Lord's power upon them, to serve him, as well as to be saved by him; in whose hearts he works, both to will and to do; and these do what they do cheerfully: these do the work of the Lord, not by the force of the law, nor through fear of punishment, but in love; not by constraint, but willingly, having no other constraint but the love of God and Christ; and not with mercenary selfish views, but with a view to his glory; and they find a pleasure and delight in all they do; Christ's ways are ways of pleasantness; his commandments are not grievous, his yoke is easy.

Gill: Pro 31:14 - -- She is like the merchant ships,.... Not like a single one, but like a navy of them, that cross the seas, go to foreign parts, and come back laden with...
She is like the merchant ships,.... Not like a single one, but like a navy of them, that cross the seas, go to foreign parts, and come back laden with rich goods: so the church of Christ, and her true members, like ships of burden, trade to heaven, by prayer and other religious exercises, and return with the riches of grace and mercy, to help them in time of need; and though they have often difficult and dangerous passages, are tossed with tempests, and covered with billows; yet, Christ being their pilot, faith their sail, and hope their anchor, they weather the seas, ride out all storms, and come safe home with their merchandise;
she bringeth her food from afar: from a far country, from Egypt particularly, from whence corn for bread, as the word here used signifies, was fetched and carried in ships to divers parts of the world p; to which the allusion may be: in a spiritual sense, it may mean that the church brings her food or bread from heaven, the good land afar off; where God her father, Christ her husband, and her friends the angels are; with whom she carries on a correspondence, and from hence she has her food for her family; not from below, on earth; not dust, the serpent's food; nor ashes, on which a deceitful heart feeds; nor husks, which swine eat; but the corn of heaven, angels' food, the hidden and heavenly manna; the bread of life, which comes down from heaven; the Gospel of the grace of God, the good news from a far country.

Gill: Pro 31:15 - -- She riseth also while it is yet night,.... That is, before the ascent of the morning, as Aben Ezra explains it, before break of day; a great while bef...
She riseth also while it is yet night,.... That is, before the ascent of the morning, as Aben Ezra explains it, before break of day; a great while before day, as Christ is said to rise to pray, Mar 1:35; while it was yet dark; so the church here: which shows her affection for her family, her care of her children, and fervent zeal for her husband's interest and good; a different frame of spirit this from that of hers in Son 5:2;
and giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens; in allusion to a daily stated allowance q of food given to such; and spiritually may be meant, by her "household" or family, the same with the family of Christ, that is named of himself, which consists of various persons, fathers, young men, and children; and by her "maidens" the ministers of the word; see Pro 9:3; who are stewards in the family, and have the food for it put into their hands to dispense; it is by these the church gives meat to her household feeds them with knowledge and understanding, with the wholesome words of Christ, with the good doctrines of the Gospel; these have a certain portion given them, and they rightly cut and divide the word of truth, and give to everyone their portion of meat in due season, according to their age and circumstances; milk indeed to babes and meat to strong men; see Luk 12:42. The Targum renders the word for "portion by service": understanding not a portion of food, but of work, a task set them, and so the word is used in Exo 5:14. The Septuagint, Syriac, and Arabic versions, render it, "works", which may be very well applied to the work and service of the Gospel ministry, and the several parts of it.

Gill: Pro 31:16 - -- She considereth a field, and buyeth it,.... The field are the Scriptures, in which are hid the rich treasures of Gospel doctrines and promises; and th...
She considereth a field, and buyeth it,.... The field are the Scriptures, in which are hid the rich treasures of Gospel doctrines and promises; and the church, and all truly enlightened persons, consider to what use this field may be put, to what account it will turn; how profitable the Scriptures are, for doctrine, reproof, correction, and instruction in righteousness; what a rich mine and valuable treasure is in them; things more desirable, and of greater worth, than thousands of gold and silver; and therefore will buy this field at any rate, and not sell it; will part with all they have before they will part with that; even life itself, which in an improper sense is called buying of it, though it is without money and without price; see Mat 13:44;
with the fruit of her hand she planteth a vineyard; her own vineyard, whose plants are an orchard of pomegranates, Son 1:6; who through the ministry of the word, are planted in the house of the Lord, and flourish there; this the church is said to do by her ministers, who plant and water, as Paul and Apollos did, 1Co 3:6. And it is observable, that in the Hebrew text there is a double reading; the "Keri", or marginal reading, is feminine; but the "Cetib", or writing, is masculine; to show that she did it by means of men, she made use of in her vineyard for that service; it being, as Aben Ezra observes, not the custom and business of women to plant vineyards, but men. It may be rendered, "he planted", and be applied to her husband, Christ; who, through the ministry of the word in his church, plants souls in it; and happy are they who are the planting of the Lord! trees of righteousness, that he may be glorified, Isa 61:3.

Gill: Pro 31:17 - -- She girdeth her loins with strength,.... Showing her readiness to every good work; and with what cheerfulness, spirit, and resolution, she set about i...
She girdeth her loins with strength,.... Showing her readiness to every good work; and with what cheerfulness, spirit, and resolution, she set about it, and with what dispatch and expedition she performed it: the allusion is to the girding and tucking up of long garments, wore in the eastern countries, when any work was set about in earnest, which required dispatch; see Luk 17:8; the strength of creatures being in their loins, Job 40:16; the loins are sometimes put for strength, as in Plautus r; and the sense is much the same with what follows;
and strengtheneth her arms; does all she finds to do with all her might and main, as the church does; not in her own strength, but in the strength of Christ; to whom she seeks for it, and in whose strength she goes forth about her business; by whom the arms of her hands are made strong, even by the mighty God of Jacob; and because she thus applies to him for it, she is said to do it herself, Gen 49:24; here she plays the man, and acts the manly part, 1Co 16:13.

Gill: Pro 31:18 - -- She perceiveth that her merchandise is good,.... That it turns to good account; that her trading to heaven is of great advantage; that she grows rich...
She perceiveth that her merchandise is good,.... That it turns to good account; that her trading to heaven is of great advantage; that she grows rich hereby; that her merchandise with Wisdom, or Christ, is better than the merchandise of silver, and the gain thereby than fine gold; and though her voyages are attended with trouble and danger, yet are profitable, and therefore she is not discouraged, but determined to pursue them; she is like the merchant man, seeking goodly pearls, who finds a pearl of great price, worth all his trouble; See Gill on Pro 31:14 and see Pro 3:14;
her candle goeth not out by night; or "lamp" s; her lamp of profession, which is always kept burning, Luk 12:35; or the glorious light of the Gospel, which always continues in the darkest times the church ever has been in; or her spiritual prosperity, which, though it may be damped, will never be extinct; when the candle of the wicked is often put out, Job 21:17; It may denote her diligence in working; who, as she rises early in the morning, Pro 31:15, so sits up late at night, and is never weary of well doing, night and day. Ambrose interprets it of the lamp of hope, which burns in the night, and by and for which men work, Rom 8:24.

Gill: Pro 31:19 - -- She layeth her hands to the spindle,.... As Penelope and her maidens did t. Or spinning wheel, more properly, the wheel itself, which is laid hold on ...
She layeth her hands to the spindle,.... As Penelope and her maidens did t. Or spinning wheel, more properly, the wheel itself, which is laid hold on by the right hand, and turned round;
and her hands hold the distaff; the rock, stick, or staff, about which the wool is wrapped, which is spun, and is held in the left hand; for though hands are mentioned in both clauses, yet it is only with one hand the wheel is turned, and the distaff held with the other. Not only wool and flax were sought by her, Pro 31:13; but she spins them, and works them up into garments her web is not like the spider's, spun out of its own bowels, on which it hangs; to which the hope and trust of a hypocrite are compared, and whose webs do not become garments to cover them, Job 8:14; but the church's web is both for ornament, to the adorning of her profession, and for defence and protection from the calumnies of the world; for by these are meant good works, as Ambrose interprets them.

Gill: Pro 31:20 - -- She stretcheth out her hand to the poor,.... Her liberality is very extensive, reaches to many, and at a distance; it is done with great cheerfulness ...
She stretcheth out her hand to the poor,.... Her liberality is very extensive, reaches to many, and at a distance; it is done with great cheerfulness and readiness; to do good and communicate, she forgets not, it being acceptable to her Lord and husband, Heb 13:16;
yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy; she gives with both hands, liberally and largely. It may be applied to the church, giving spiritual food by her ministers to those who are poor in spirit, spiritually poor and needy, and who hunger and thirst after righteousness.

Gill: Pro 31:21 - -- She is not afraid of the snow for her household,.... That her family should suffer through the rigour of a cold season, when it is frost and snow;
...
She is not afraid of the snow for her household,.... That her family should suffer through the rigour of a cold season, when it is frost and snow;
for all her household are clothed with scarlet: the Vulgate Latin version renders it, "with double" u, that is, with double garments; and so the Septuagint and Arabic versions, joining the words to a following verse; and this, by some, is thought to be the better rendering of the words; since the scarlet colour is no fence against cold, no more than any other, whereas double garments are; and which may be applied to the garment of justification, or the robe of Christ's righteousness, as one; and to the garment of sanctification, internal and external, as the other; the one, even the righteousness of Christ, or Christ the Lord our righteousness, is an hiding place from the wind, and a covert from the storm; a sufficient shelter from the cold of snow, and all inclemencies of the weather; by which the vindictive wrath and justice of God may be signified: and the other is a screen from the malicious insinuations and reproaches of men. But had the word been designed to signify "double", it would have been in the "dual" number; as it is not, and is always used in this form for "scarlet"; and so the Targum, Jarchi, and Aben Ezra interpret it; which colour is an emblem of the blood of Christ, by which the church is justified, Rom 5:9; and all the household of faith, the whole family of Christ and household of God, are all justified by the same righteousness of Christ, consisting of his active and passive obedience, for the whole of which his crimson blood is put; it is a garment down to the feet, which covers all his people; they are all made righteous by the one obedience of Christ; they are all clothed in scarlet alike, all kings and priests unto God, all alike justified, and shall be glorified alike. The literal sense is, that if her household are clothed in scarlet in common; much more may it be thought that coarse and suitable garments would be provided for them, to protect them from the cold in winter w.

Gill: Pro 31:22 - -- She maketh herself coverings of tapestry,.... For the furniture and ornament of her house, or for her bed; which may signify the ordinances of the Gos...
She maketh herself coverings of tapestry,.... For the furniture and ornament of her house, or for her bed; which may signify the ordinances of the Gospel, and the decent, orderly, and beautiful administration of them, wherein the church has communion with her Lord; see Son 1:16. The Vulgate Latin version renders it, "garments of divers colours", such as was Joseph's coat, Gen 37:3; and, in a spiritual sense, may be applied to the above mentioned garments, and agrees with what goes before and follows;
her clothing is silk and purple; the Tyrian purple, which, Strabo says x, is the best; or purple silk, silk of a purple colour: or rather fine linen of this colour; a dress suitable to a queen, as the church is, who is represented as clothed with clothing of wrought gold, with raiment of needlework, Psa 45:9; see Eze 16:10. This is not her own natural clothing, for she has none by nature that deserves the name; nor of her own working, not works of righteousness done by her; nor of her own putting on, but what Christ has wrought out for her, and clothes her with; and which is very rich in itself, the best robe, very ornamental to her; her wedding garment, and which will last for ever; see Isa 61:10.

Gill: Pro 31:23 - -- Her husband is known in the gates,.... Of the city, where courts of justice were kept, and causes heard and tried by the judges, the elders of the lan...
Her husband is known in the gates,.... Of the city, where courts of justice were kept, and causes heard and tried by the judges, the elders of the land, later mentioned; among whom the husband of the virtuous woman was, where he was known, taken notice of, and celebrated; not so much for the beautiful garments she made him, as Jarchi; but rather for his wisdom, as Gersom, and for being the husband of such a woman; who, taking such care of his domestic affairs, he was more at leisure to attend public business, and transact it with reputation. Christ is the husband of the church in general, and of particular churches, and of every private believer; he fell in love with them, asked them of his Father, and betrothed them to himself; and is a kind, tender, loving, and sympathizing husband to his church and people; that nourishes and cherishes them, and provides all things for them, and interests them in all he has: and he is "known" by them, in the dignity of his person, in the excellency of his offices, and the fulness of his grace; he is known by them in the relation of an husband; he is well known in the church of God, in the assembly of his saints, Psa 76:1; he is known in the gates of Zion, in the public ministering of the word and ordinances; his name is celebrated, it becomes great and famous, wherever his Gospel is preached in the world; he is,
"known in the provinces,''
as the Targum; or,
"among the cities,''
as the Syriac version; among the nations of the world, in the cities of the Gentiles; as he will be, even from the rising of the sun to the going down of the same, Mal 1:11;
when he sitteth among the elders of the land; when he sits in his house, at his table, circled by his saints, his ancient ones; or as King, head, and husband of his people, on his throne in the church, encompassed with, the four and twenty elders, the representatives of Gospel churches, Rev 4:2. And especially when he shall take to himself his great power, and reign gloriously before his ancients, the patriarchs, prophets, and apostles, and all his saints, which will come with him; whom he has loved with an everlasting love; who were chosen in him before the foundation of the world; and had grace given them, in him, before the world began, Isa 24:23; and when he shall come to judge the world, and will appear in great glory, and be seen and known of all; and shall sit on his throne of glory, and his elders also, sitting on twelve thrones, judging the tribes of Israel, Mat 19:28; so Ambrose interprets it of the universal judgment.

Gill: Pro 31:24 - -- She maketh fine linen, and selleth it,.... She not only seeks wool and flax, and spins it, but makes it up into fine linen, which she disposes of to ...
She maketh fine linen, and selleth it,.... She not only seeks wool and flax, and spins it, but makes it up into fine linen, which she disposes of to advantage to herself and family. Kimchi says y, the word signifies coverings for the night, as well as day he seems to design linen sheets: the Arabic version adds, and "sells it to the inhabitants of Bosra." This, in the mystic sense, may signify either the good works the church does, and which she proposes as a pattern and example to her members; or divine instruction, as others, the preaching of the Gospel, and the truths of it; which she sells, and others buy, though both without money and without price; for, as she freely receives, she freely gives: or the righteousness of Christ, which is called fine linen and white raiment; which, properly speaking, is made by Christ, and sold by him, or bought of him, as before, without money; see Rev 19:8; yet this the church makes her own, by laying hold upon it by faith, and which she holds forth freely to others in the Gospel; which is therefore called "the ministration of righteousness", 2Co 3:9;
and delivereth girdles unto the merchant; to dispose of them for her; either to sell to others, to the Egyptian priests which wore them; or for their own use, to put their money in, girdles being used for that purpose; see Gill on Mat 10:9. Or, "a girdle to the Canaanite" z; the Canaanites or Phoenicians being generally merchants, the word is put for one. By these may be meant ministers of the word; for, as the priests of Rome are called the merchants of the earth and false teachers are said to make merchandise men, Rev 18:3; so faithful ministers, who trade for the good of souls, and seek not theirs, but them, and not their own things, but Christ's, may be called merchants: and to these "the girdle of truth" is given; and these the church exhorts to gird their loins with it, as well as all her members, that they may be ready to every good work, and particularly prepared to preach the Gospel of peace, Eph 6:14.

Gill: Pro 31:25 - -- Strength and honour are her clothing,.... Strength, not of body, but of mind. The church is clothed with strength, as her Lord, head, and husband, is...
Strength and honour are her clothing,.... Strength, not of body, but of mind. The church is clothed with strength, as her Lord, head, and husband, is said to be, Psa 93:1; and which she has from him; for though she is the weaker vessel, and weak in herself, yet is strong in him; and is able to bear and do all things, with a fortitude of mind to withstand every enemy, and persevere in well doing: and she is clothed with "honour"; with honourable garments, suitable to her rank and dignity; in cloth of gold, in raiment of needlework; with the garments of salvation, and the robe of righteousness;
and she shall rejoice in time to come; Aben Ezra interprets it of old age, or of the world to come; and Jarchi and Gersom of the day of death: having fulness of food and clothing, she is not afraid of want in old age, or in any time of distress that may come; and having a good name, laughs at death, and departs in peace; so these interpreters. The church of Christ fears no want at any time, nor need any of her members; they have a clothing that never waxes old, a righteousness that will answer for them in a time to come; their bread is given, and their waters are sure; they shall want no good thing; all their need is supplied from Christ; they have hope in their death, and rejoice then and sing, "O death, where is thy sting?" 1Co 15:55; they will have confidence in the day of judgment, and not be ashamed; shall come to Zion with everlasting joy; and shall rejoice with Christ, angels and saints, to all eternity.

Gill: Pro 31:26 - -- She openeth her mouth with wisdom,.... When she opens her mouth, for it is not always open, she expresses herself in a discreet and prudent manner; as...
She openeth her mouth with wisdom,.... When she opens her mouth, for it is not always open, she expresses herself in a discreet and prudent manner; as well as speaks of things not foolish and trifling, but of moment and importance, and of usefulness to others: or "concerning wisdom" a; the church and people of Christ talk of the wisdom of God in the works of creation, providence, and redemption; of Christ, the Wisdom of God, and as made so to them; of the Gospel, the wisdom of God in a mystery, the hidden wisdom; and of wisdom in the hidden part, or the truth of grace in their souls; of their gracious experiences; nor will they suffer any foolish, filthy, and corrupt communication to proceed out of their mouths, but speak the pure language of Canaan; what is for the use of edifying, and being taken out of the Scriptures is profitable for instruction in righteousness; see Psa 37:30;
and in her tongue is the law of kindness; or "the law of love" b, grace and mercy; which is the law of Christ, Gal 6:2; speaking kindly and tenderly to everyone, exhorting to acts of mercy and kindness, and doing them herself: or "the doctrine of grace is in her tongue" c; the Gospel, which is called the Gospel of the grace of God, and the grace of God itself; it is the doctrine of the grace and love of God the Father towards men in Christ, as it appears in their election in him and redemption by him; of the grace of Christ in his incarnation, sufferings, and death; and of the grace of the Spirit in regeneration, conversion, and sanctification; and which contains various doctrines of grace, as of justification, pardon of sin, and effectual calling; and of salvation itself, which is all of grace: and this doctrine of grace, in the several branches of it, the church, and all gracious souls, cannot forbear speaking of; it is often in their mouths, it dwells upon their tongues; and careful are they in other respects that their speech be seasoned with grace, and be such that ministers grace to the hearers, Eph 4:29.

Gill: Pro 31:27 - -- She looketh well to the ways of her household,.... The business of her house, her domestic affairs; that her children and servants have convenient foo...
She looketh well to the ways of her household,.... The business of her house, her domestic affairs; that her children and servants have convenient food, and in due season; that they have proper clothing, and keep their garments close about them, and unspotted; that everyone does the business of his calling, her several officers, and private members; that a good decorum is kept, that all things are done decently and in order; that the rules of her lord and husband are observed; that the conversations of all in her house are according to the word of God, and becoming their character: she takes care of the sick and weak, comforts the feeble minded, and supports the infirm; she cannot bear them that are evil, whether in principle or practice; that are immoral in their lives, or unsound in their faith; but admonishes them according to the nature of their offences, and casts out the obstinate or incorrigible. The words may be rendered, "she looks well to the ways of her house" d; that lead unto it, so Gersom; either her house below, the way or entrance into which is by faith in Christ, and a profession of it; and she takes care that none be admitted but such who have it: or the ways in it, the commands, ordinances, appointments, and constitutions of Christ, called the ways of Zion; and concerned she is that all in her family walk in them, and observe them: or her house above, which is eternal in the heavens; Christ's Father's house and, hers, in which are many mansions, and everlasting habitations; the way to this also is Christ, who is the true way to eternal life, the strait gate and narrow way that leads to it; without his imputed righteousness, and the regenerating grace of his Spirit, there is no entrance into it: besides this, there are lesser paths which agree and coincide; as the paths of faith, truth, and holiness, and the ways of Christ's commandments, which issue in it, and which the church and her true members are careful to look unto and observe. The Arabic version renders it, "the paths of her house are strait"; with which compare Mat 7:13. Jarchi interprets these ways of the law, which teaches the good way, and to separate from transgression;
and eateth not the bread of idleness; of an idle woman, as Aben Ezra; or she being idle does not eat bread; she does not eat it without labour; it is "the bread of labour", of many labours she eats, as in Psa 127:2; she labours for the meat which endures to everlasting life, Joh 6:27; the Gospel, that bread which strengthens man's heart, refreshes his spirit, is made of the finest of the wheat, contains the wholesome words of Christ, and by which men are nourished up unto everlasting life; and which particularly directs to Christ the true bread, the bread of life, of which if a man eat he shall never die, but live for ever; and on which true believers feed by faith; but though this is prepared for them, and is the gift of God to them, yet must be laboured for; it is not eaten without labour: believers read, hear, and pray, and diligently attend all ordinances for the sake of this food.

Gill: Pro 31:28 - -- Her children arise up,.... As olive plants around her table; grow up to maturity of age, and ripeness of judgment, and so capable of observing things,...
Her children arise up,.... As olive plants around her table; grow up to maturity of age, and ripeness of judgment, and so capable of observing things, and doing the work here ascribed to them: or they rise up in reverence of her, and respect to her, suitable to the relation they stand in to her: or rather it signifies their readiness to show a regard unto her, and their setting about the work of commendation of her in earnest: or else their earliness in doing it; they rise in the morning, as Aben Ezra's note is; her lamp not being extinct in the night. Jarchi interprets these "children" of disciples; but they are to be understood of regenerate persons, young converts, born in Zion, and brought up by her; the children of that Jerusalem that is the mother of us all, Isa 54:1;
and call her blessed; bless God for her, for such a mother, and wish themselves as happy as she is; they pray for her blessedness, peace, and prosperity, as all Zion's children should, Psa 122:6; they pronounce her blessed, as well they may, since she is blessed with all spiritual blessings in Christ; and so are all in her family that truly belong to her, her children and her servants, Psa 84:4; see Son 6:9;
her husband also, and he praiseth her; that is, he is ready also to rise up and speak in her praise and commendation. Jarchi says this is the holy blessed God. Christ is the church's husband, who is her Maker; See Gill on Pro 31:23; he praises her for her beauty, though she owes it all to him; for her comely parts and gracefulness, which he describes with wonder; for her dress, her garments, though they are his own; for her faith, love, humility, and other graces, though they are his gifts; see Son 1:8.

Gill: Pro 31:29 - -- Many daughters have done virtuously,.... This, according to Aben Ezra and Gersom, is what was said by her husband and children, and which seems to be ...
Many daughters have done virtuously,.... This, according to Aben Ezra and Gersom, is what was said by her husband and children, and which seems to be right; especially they may be thought to be the words of her husband. By these "daughters" may be meant false churches, such as the church of Rome and her daughters, who is the mother of harlots, Rev 17:17. These are "many", when the true church of Christ is but one, to whom she is opposed, Son 6:8. These may do many virtuous things externally; may make a great show of religion and devotion; may have a form of godliness, without the power of it; and a name to live, and be dead. The Vulgate Latin version renders it, "many daughters have gathered riches"; or "have possessed riches", as the Septuagint, Syriac, and Arabic versions, and so the Targum; and in this sense the phrase is sometimes used for getting riches and wealth; see Deu 8:17; and may well be applied to the false churches, the church of Rome and her daughters, who possess great riches and large emoluments, which yet in a short time will come to nothing, Rev 18:17;
but thou excellest them all; in real beauty, in true riches, in purity of doctrine, in simplicity of worship, in holiness of life and conversation, in undefiled religion, in doing good works, properly so called. Christ's church is "the fairest among women", Son 1:8. So Ambrose interprets the daughters of heresies and heretics.

Gill: Pro 31:30 - -- Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain,.... A well favoured look, a graceful countenance, symmetry and proportion of parts, natural or artificial be...
Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain,.... A well favoured look, a graceful countenance, symmetry and proportion of parts, natural or artificial beauty, are vain and deceitful; oftentimes under them lies an ill natured, deformed, and depraved mind; nor is the pleasure and satisfaction enjoyed as is promised along with these; and particularly how do they fade e and consume away by a fit of illness, and through old age, and at last by death? And so vain and deceitful are the favour and beauty, the artificial paintings, of Jezebel, that whore of Rome; all her meretricious deckings, dressings, and ornaments; her gaudy pomp and show in her worship, and the places of it; see Rev 17:4. Jarchi interprets this of the grandeur and glory of the kings of the nations;
but a woman that feareth the Lord, she shall be praised; any single individual, man or woman, that fears the Lord; or a collective body of them, a society consisting of such persons, as the true church of Christ does; who have the grace of fear in their hearts, which is the beginning of wisdom, and includes the whole of religious worship, internal and external, private and public: such are taken notice of and highly valued by the Lord; his eye is upon them; his hand communicates to them much grace; and many benefits are bestowed upon them here, and great honour is conferred upon them, and great goodness is laid up for them.

expand allCommentary -- Verse Notes / Footnotes
NET Notes -> Pro 31:1; Pro 31:1; Pro 31:2; Pro 31:2; Pro 31:3; Pro 31:3; Pro 31:3; Pro 31:4; Pro 31:4; Pro 31:4; Pro 31:4; Pro 31:5; Pro 31:5; Pro 31:5; Pro 31:6; Pro 31:6; Pro 31:7; Pro 31:7; Pro 31:8; Pro 31:8; Pro 31:8; Pro 31:9; Pro 31:9; Pro 31:10; Pro 31:10; Pro 31:10; Pro 31:10; Pro 31:10; Pro 31:11; Pro 31:11; Pro 31:12; Pro 31:12; Pro 31:13; Pro 31:13; Pro 31:14; Pro 31:14; Pro 31:15; Pro 31:15; Pro 31:15; Pro 31:16; Pro 31:16; Pro 31:16; Pro 31:17; Pro 31:17; Pro 31:17; Pro 31:18; Pro 31:18; Pro 31:18; Pro 31:19; Pro 31:19; Pro 31:19; Pro 31:20; Pro 31:20; Pro 31:21; Pro 31:21; Pro 31:21; Pro 31:22; Pro 31:22; Pro 31:23; Pro 31:23; Pro 31:23; Pro 31:23; Pro 31:24; Pro 31:24; Pro 31:24; Pro 31:25; Pro 31:25; Pro 31:25; Pro 31:25; Pro 31:25; Pro 31:26; Pro 31:26; Pro 31:26; Pro 31:27; Pro 31:27; Pro 31:28; Pro 31:28; Pro 31:28; Pro 31:29; Pro 31:29; Pro 31:29; Pro 31:30; Pro 31:30; Pro 31:30
NET Notes: Pro 31:1 Some English versions take the Hebrew noun translated “oracle” here as a place name specifying the kingdom of King Lemuel; cf. NAB “...

NET Notes: Pro 31:2 In all three occurrences in this verse the word “son” has the Aramaic spelling, ַַבּר (bar), rather than the...

NET Notes: Pro 31:3 The construction uses Qal infinitive construct לַמְחוֹת (lamkhot, “to wipe out; to blot out; to ...


NET Notes: Pro 31:5 The word is דִּין (din, “judgment”; so KJV). In this passage it refers to the cause or the plea for justice,...


NET Notes: Pro 31:7 The king was not to “drink and forget”; the suffering are to “drink and forget.”

NET Notes: Pro 31:8 Or “of all the defenseless.” The noun חֲלוֹף (khalof) means “passing away; vanishing” (pro...

NET Notes: Pro 31:9 Previously the noun דִּין (din, judgment”) was used, signifying the legal rights or the pleas of the people. Now t...

NET Notes: Pro 31:10 This line expresses that her value (Heb “her price”), like wisdom, is worth more than rubies (e.g., 3:15; 8:11).

NET Notes: Pro 31:11 The Hebrew word used here for “gain” (שָׁלָל, shalal) is unusual; it means “plunder; spoil”...

NET Notes: Pro 31:12 The joining of these two words, “good” and “evil,” is frequent in the Bible; they contrast the prosperity and well-being of he...

NET Notes: Pro 31:13 Heb “and she works in the pleasure of her hands.” The noun חֵפֶץ (khefets) means “delight; pleasure....

NET Notes: Pro 31:14 The point of the simile is that she goes wherever she needs to go, near and far, to gather in all the food for the needs and the likes of the family. ...

NET Notes: Pro 31:15 The word חֹק (khoq) probably means “allotted portion of food” as before, but some suggest it means the task that is allo...

NET Notes: Pro 31:16 Heb “from the fruit of her hands.” The expression employs two figures. “Hands” is a metonymy of cause, indicating the work she...

NET Notes: Pro 31:17 The expression “she makes her arm strong” parallels the first half of the verse and indicates that she gets down to her work with vigor an...

NET Notes: Pro 31:18 The line may be taken literally to mean that she is industrious throughout the night (“burning the midnight oil”) when she must in order t...

NET Notes: Pro 31:19 The verb שִׁלַּח (shilakh), the Piel perfect of the verb “to send,” means in this stem “to...

NET Notes: Pro 31:20 The first word of the eleventh line begins with כּ (kaf), the eleventh letter of the Hebrew alphabet.

NET Notes: Pro 31:21 For the MT’s “scarlet” the LXX and the Latin have “two” or “double” – the difference being essentially...

NET Notes: Pro 31:22 The “fine linen” refers to expensive clothing (e.g., Gen 41:42), as does the “purple” (e.g., Exod 26:7; 27:9, 18). Garments dy...

NET Notes: Pro 31:23 The construction uses the infinitive construct with the preposition and a pronominal suffix that serves as the subject (subjective genitive) to form a...

NET Notes: Pro 31:24 Heb “to the Canaanites.” These are the Phoenician traders that survived the wars and continued to do business down to the exile.

NET Notes: Pro 31:25 Heb “day.” This word is a metonymy of subject meaning any events that take place on the day or in the time to come.


NET Notes: Pro 31:27 The expression bread of idleness refers to food that is gained through idleness, perhaps given or provided for her. In the description of the passage ...

NET Notes: Pro 31:28 The text uses an independent nominative absolute to draw attention to her husband: “her husband, and he praises her.” Prominent as he is, ...


NET Notes: Pro 31:30 This chapter describes the wise woman as fearing the Lord. It is the fear of the Lord that is the beginning of wisdom – that was the motto of th...
Geneva Bible: Pro 31:1 The words of king ( a ) Lemuel, the ( b ) prophecy that his mother taught him.
( a ) That is, of Solomon who was called Lemuel, that is, of God, beca...

Geneva Bible: Pro 31:2 What, my son? and what, the son of ( c ) my womb? and what, the son of my vows?
( c ) By this often repetition of one thing, she declares her motherl...

Geneva Bible: Pro 31:3 Give not thy strength to women, ( d ) nor thy ways to that which destroyeth kings.
( d ) Meaning, that women are the destruction of kings, if they hu...

Geneva Bible: Pro 31:4 [It is] not for kings, O Lemuel, [it is] not for kings to drink wine; nor for princes ( e ) strong drink:
( e ) That is, the king must not give himse...

Geneva Bible: Pro 31:7 Let him drink, and forget ( f ) his poverty, and remember his misery no more.
( f ) For wine comforts the heart as in (Psa 104:15).

Geneva Bible: Pro 31:8 Open thy mouth for the ( g ) dumb in the cause of all such as are appointed to destruction.
( g ) Defend their cause that are not able to help themse...

Geneva Bible: Pro 31:11 The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of ( h ) spoil.
( h ) He will not need to use any unlawful means to ...

Geneva Bible: Pro 31:15 She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth food to her household, and a ( i ) portion to her maidens.
( i ) She prepares their food early.

Geneva Bible: Pro 31:16 She considereth a field, and ( k ) buyeth it: with the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard.
( k ) She purchases it with the gains of her trava...

Geneva Bible: Pro 31:23 Her husband is known in the ( l ) gates, when he sitteth among the elders of the land.
( l ) In the assemblies and places of judgment.

Geneva Bible: Pro 31:25 ( m ) Strength and honour [are] her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come.
( m ) After he had spoken of the apparel of the body, he now dec...

Geneva Bible: Pro 31:26 She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and on her tongue [is] the ( n ) law of kindness.
( n ) Her tongue is a book by which one might learn many good th...

Geneva Bible: Pro 31:28 Her children rise up, and ( o ) call her blessed; her husband [also], and he praiseth her.
( o ) That is, do her reverence.

expand allCommentary -- Verse Range Notes
TSK Synopsis -> Pro 31:1-31
TSK Synopsis: Pro 31:1-31 - --1 Lemuel's lesson of chastity and temperance.6 The afflicted are to be comforted and defended.10 The praise and properties of a good wife.
Maclaren -> Pro 31:10-31
Maclaren: Pro 31:10-31 - --Portrait Of A Matron
Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies. 11. The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that...
MHCC -> Pro 31:1-9; Pro 31:10-31
MHCC: Pro 31:1-9 - --When children are under the mother's eye, she has an opportunity of fashioning their minds aright. Those who are grown up, should often call to mind t...

MHCC: Pro 31:10-31 - --This is the description of a virtuous woman of those days, but the general outlines equally suit every age and nation. She is very careful to recommen...
Matthew Henry -> Pro 31:1-9; Pro 31:10-31
Matthew Henry: Pro 31:1-9 - -- Most interpreters are of opinion that Lemuel is Solomon; the name signifies one that is for God, or devoted to God; and so it agrees well enough...

Matthew Henry: Pro 31:10-31 - -- This description of the virtuous woman is designed to show what wives the women should make and what wives the men should choose; it consists of t...
Keil-Delitzsch -> Pro 31:1; Pro 31:2; Pro 31:3; Pro 31:4-5; Pro 31:6-7; Pro 31:8-9; Pro 31:10; Pro 31:11; Pro 31:12; Pro 31:13; Pro 31:14; Pro 31:15; Pro 31:16; Pro 31:17; Pro 31:18; Pro 31:19; Pro 31:20; Pro 31:21; Pro 31:22; Pro 31:23; Pro 31:24; Pro 31:25; Pro 31:26; Pro 31:27; Pro 31:28; Pro 31:29; Pro 31:30
Keil-Delitzsch: Pro 31:1 - --
Superscription:
1 Words of Lemuel the king,
The utterance wherewith his mother warned him.
Such would be the superscription if the interpunction ...

Keil-Delitzsch: Pro 31:2 - --
2 What, my son? and what the son of my womb?
And what, O son of my vows?!
The thrice repeated מה is completed by תּעשׂה (cf. Köhler under...

Keil-Delitzsch: Pro 31:3 - --
The first admonition is a warning against effeminating sensuality:
Give not thy strength to women,
Nor thy ways to them that destroy kings.
The p...

Keil-Delitzsch: Pro 31:4-5 - --
Hence there now follows a warning against drunkenness, not unmediated by the reading למחות :
4 It is not for kings, O Lemuel,
Not for kings ...

Keil-Delitzsch: Pro 31:6-7 - --
6 Give strong drink to him that is perishing,
And wine to those whose soul is in bitter woe;
7 Let him drink and forget his poverty,
And let him ...

Keil-Delitzsch: Pro 31:8-9 - --
8 Open thy mouth for the dumb,
For the right of all the children of leaving;
9 Open thy mouth, judge righteously,
And do right to the poor and ne...

Keil-Delitzsch: Pro 31:10 - --
A wife, such as she ought to be, is a rare treasure, a good excelling all earthly possession:
10 א A virtuous woman, who findeth her!
She stands...

Keil-Delitzsch: Pro 31:11 - --
The reason for this is now given:
11 ב The heart of her husband doth trust her,
And he shall not fail of grain.
If we interpret שׁלל , afte...

Keil-Delitzsch: Pro 31:12 - --
12 ג She doeth good to him, and not evil,
All the days of her life;
or, as Luther translates:
"steplang7 Sie thut jm liebs und kein leids ."
...

Keil-Delitzsch: Pro 31:13 - --
The poet now describes how she disposes of things:
13 ד She careth for wool and flax,
And worketh these with her hands' pleasure.
The verb דּ...

Keil-Delitzsch: Pro 31:14 - --
The following proverb praises the extent of her housewifely transactions:
14 ה She is like the ships of the merchant -
Bringeth her food from a...

Keil-Delitzsch: Pro 31:15 - --
With this diligence in her duties she is not a long sleeper, who is not awakened till the sun is up; but
15 ו She riseth up while it is yet night...

Keil-Delitzsch: Pro 31:16 - --
This industry - a pattern for the whole house - this punctuality in the management of household matters, secures to her success in the extension of ...

Keil-Delitzsch: Pro 31:17 - --
The poet has this augmented household wealth in his eye, for he continues:
17 ח She girdeth her loins with strength,
And moveth vigorously her a...

Keil-Delitzsch: Pro 31:18 - --
18 ט She perceiveth that her gain is good;
And her light goeth not out at night.
The perf. and fut. are related to each other as antecedent and ...

Keil-Delitzsch: Pro 31:19 - --
19 י She putteth her hand to the rock Spinnrocken;
And her fingers lay hold on the spindle.
She applies herself to the work of spinning, and per...

Keil-Delitzsch: Pro 31:20 - --
That which impels the housewife to this labour is not selfishness, not a narrow-hearted limitation of her care to the circle of what is her own, but...

Keil-Delitzsch: Pro 31:21 - --
But the poet goes on to describe her fruitful activity in the nearest sphere of her calling:
21 ל She is not afraid of the snow for her house;
F...

Keil-Delitzsch: Pro 31:22 - --
From the protecting, and at the same time ornamental clothing of the family, the poet proceeds to speak of the bed-places, and of the attire of the ...

Keil-Delitzsch: Pro 31:23 - --
Now, first, the description turns back to the husband, of the woman who is commended, mentioned in the introduction:
23 נ 32 Well known in the ga...

Keil-Delitzsch: Pro 31:24 - --
The description, following the order of the letters, now directs attention to the profitable labour of the housewife:
24 ס She prepareth body-lin...

Keil-Delitzsch: Pro 31:25 - --
The description is now more inward:
25 ע Strength and honour is her clothing;
Thus she laugheth at the future day.
She is clothed with עז , ...

Keil-Delitzsch: Pro 31:26 - --
The next verse presents one of the most beautiful features in the portrait:
26 פ She openeth her mouth with wisdom,
And amiable instruction is o...

Keil-Delitzsch: Pro 31:27 - --
27 צ She looketh well to the ways of her house,
And eateth not the bread of idleness.
Although there exists an inner relation between 27a and Pr...

Keil-Delitzsch: Pro 31:28 - --
Now begins the finale of this song in praise of the virtuous woman:
28 ק Her sons rise up and bless her,
Her husband (riseth up) and praiseth he...

Keil-Delitzsch: Pro 31:29 - --
29 ר "Many are the daughters who have done bravely,
But thou hast surpassed them all together."
We have already often remarked, last time under ...

Keil-Delitzsch: Pro 31:30 - --
What now follows is not a continuation of the husband's words of praise (Ewald, Elster, Löwenstein), but an epiphonema auctoris (Schultens); the ...
Constable: Pro 30:1--31:31 - --V. TWO DISCOURSES BY OTHER WISE MEN chs. 30--31
Chapters 30 and 31 form a distinct section in Proverbs because n...

Constable: Pro 31:1-31 - --B. The Wisdom of Lemuel ch. 31
Some commentators have regarded only the first nine verses of this chapte...

Constable: Pro 31:1 - --1. The introduction of Lemuel 31:1
King Lemuel was evidently not a king of Israel or Judah. No k...

Constable: Pro 31:2-9 - --2. The wise king 31:2-9
31:2 The unusual address, "What, O my son?" is "affectionately reproachful."210 She was getting his attention and appealed to ...

Constable: Pro 31:10-31 - --3. The wise woman 31:10-31
We have read much in Proverbs already about unwise women. Solomon personified both wisdom and folly as women (chs. 8-9). Pe...
