Have you ever had questions about Proverbs 31 or the virtuous woman? Below you’ll find the answers to all your questions about Proverbs 31 and the Proverbs 31 woman. Plus, at the end of this post you’ll find a Proverbs 31 free printable Bible study guide!
The Proverbs 31 woman often feels like an unattainable goal for women to reach. However, I want to assure you that you can be a modern Proverbs 31 woman today.
A Proverbs 31 Ministry
I’ve been writing here at A Virtuous Woman for nearly 20 years and my heart is for women who are struggling and feel overwhelmed. I want to help you find freedom from perfection and the confidence to live your life with purpose.
A Virtuous Woman is a Proverbs 31 ministry that God laid on my heart when I was a young mom at the age of 25. If you’d like to read more about my story and how I started my journey of motherhood at the young age of 14 (teen mom here!) and was a divorced mother of three by the time I was 21… you can read my story here.
I’m here to tell you that God doesn’t just redeem the good girls! If I can find victory in Jesus today, so can you.
Proverbs 31 Woman Questions Answered
A Study on Proverbs 31 with Questions
Did you know that Mother’s day is when most pastor’s preach about Proverbs 31? It almost feels like an obligation. You know what I mean?
“Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her.” Proverbs 31:28
Well here’s the deal. The Proverbs 31 woman is about so much more than a Mother’s day sermon! I invite you to come along with me as I take a look at the most frequently asked questions about the Proverbs 31 Woman.
Note: If you have a question I didn’t answer here, comment below and I promise to answer your questions about the virtuous woman!
Where can I find a study on proverbs 31 with questions?
Right here. Check out the answers to all your questions below. And, here are a few links to my most popular posts about the Proverbs 31 woman:
- The 10 Virtues of the Proverbs 31 Woman
- A Proverbs 31 Prayer
- A Simple Guide to the Proverbs 31 Woman
- Bible Study Methods for the Proverbs 31 Woman
Who wrote Proverbs 31 in the Bible?
The passage of Proverbs 31 is attributed to King Lemuel – a man most people believe to be King Solomon. The advice was given to him by his mother who wanted her son to marry well.
“The sayings of King Lemuel—an inspired utterance his mother taught him.” Proverbs 31:1
Who is Proverbs 31 about?
Proverbs 31 is a beautiful representation of womanhood and an ode to women everywhere. Women work hard and they should be celebrated and appreciated!
In Jewish culture, the man of house often sings Proverbs 31 as a praise or blessing to his wife before the Sabbath meal.
The passage of Proverbs 31 is also a prophecy given to King Lemuel regarding the church. The Proverbs 31 woman is an example of God’s faithful church, the bride of Christ. Did you know that Proverbs 31 is the church? If you didn’t, it’s pretty fascinating when you realize how Proverbs 31 is for men and women alike!
Why does Proverbs 31 talk about rubies?
We find that the passage of the Proverbs woman (or the virtuous woman) begins with these words:
“A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies.” Proverbs 31: 10
God sees you are more precious than rubies! Rubies are a beautiful and rare stone. So is a woman who loves the Lord.
Answers in Genesis tells us: “In our culture most attention is focused on the glamour of diamonds, but two colorful gems—rubies and sapphires—are actually much rarer and more valuable. God’s Word gives these two stones special attention. Indeed, rubies and sapphires are mentioned more often than diamonds.”
Other verses in the Bible also mention rubies:
“No mention shall be made of coral, or of pearls: for the price of wisdom is above rubies.” Job 28:18
“For wisdom is better than rubies; and all the things that may be desired are not to be compared to it.” Proverbs 8:11
Is the Proverbs 31 Woman unrealistic?
No! So many women read Proverbs 31 or they hear their pastor speak of her on Mother’s day, but in their hearts they believe that become a Proverbs 31 woman is unattainable or unrealistic.
But I believe that you can become a Proverbs 31 woman. I believe God’s Word is relevant today – even the passage of Proverbs 31!
The passage of Proverbs 31 is not a checklist or a to do list or word to make you feel bad about yourself. In fact, you might be surprised that being a virtuous woman isn’t nearly as daunting as you think it is!
Read How to Become a Proverbs 31 Woman to learn more.
What does it mean to be a virtuous woman?
So many people wonder about the proverbs 31 meaning and what it really means to be a Proverbs 31 woman. The meaning of Proverbs 31 is really about the character of a faithful woman – a woman who loves God with all of her heart.
The Proverbs 31 woman is a woman after God’s own heart! She has the character of Christ because He lives in her.
“I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” Galatians 2:20
“Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.” Proverbs 31:30
How can I be a Proverbs 31 Woman today?
Begin by seeking God’s own will for your life. The Bible tells us that God has a plan for you!
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11
God has a special plan for you. You are a unique creation! He has a purpose for your life. Through prayer and Bible study you can learn what God has planned for you.
What are the 10 characteristics of the Proverbs 31 Woman?
You can read more about the 10 characteristics of the Proverbs 31 Woman here.
- Faith. She loves Jesus with all of her heart.
- Marriage. She is a faithful bride.
- Mothering. She is a loving mother and her children call her blessed.
- Health. She takes care of her physical, mental, and spiritual health.
- Service. She serves others with love and kindness.
- Stewardship. She is a wise steward of the gifts God has given her.
- Industry. She is industrious and works with willing hands.
- Homemaking. She is a good manager of her home.
- Time. She spends her time on that which is good.
- Beauty. She is creative and embraces beauty and godliness.
Can I be a Proverbs 31 woman if I work outside the home?
Yes! You can be a Proverbs 31 woman even if you work outside the home. There are many examples in the Bible of faithful women who worked outside the home or were self employed. For example, Lydia.
Lydia of Thyatira is introduced to us in the New Testament as a woman who loves the Lord. She is considered the first recorded convert to Christianity in Europe! She is also known as the “woman of purple” because she sold beautiful purple cloth. You can find the story of Lydia and how she served God through her hospitality in Acts 16.
We also find in the passage of Proverbs 31 that the virtuous woman earned an income.
“She makes linen garments and sells them, and supplies the merchants with sashes.” Proverbs 31:24
Can I be a Proverbs 31 woman if I am single? Can I be a Proverbs 31 woman if I don’t have kids?
Being a Proverbs 31 woman does not mean you need to be married or you need to have kids – you can be single with no children and still be a virtuous woman. In fact, the passage of Proverbs 31 still apples to you if you are single and have no children!
The passage of Proverbs 31 is not only a beautiful representation of womanhood and what it means to be a woman, it’s also a representation of God’s faithful people – His church or the bride of Christ.
Jesus is the groom found in Revelation and His bride is the church.
“Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and his bride has made herself ready. Fine linen, bright and clean, was given her to wear.” Revelation 19:7, 8
Proverbs 31 tells us that the virtuous woman is “clothed in fine linen and purple.” Proverbs 31:22
“Fine linen stands for the righteous acts of God’s holy people.” Revelation 19:8
“Then the angel said to me, “Write this: Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding supper of the Lamb!” And he added, “These are the true words of God.” Revelation 19:9
What does the word “chayil” mean?
The Hebrew word “chayil” is used to describe the Proverbs 31 woman. In fact, if you were to look at the original Hebrew text, you would see that it says the virtuous woman is “eshet chayil” which means “woman of valor”.
“Who can find a wife of noble character?” is translated to mean: “Who can find a woman of valor.” Proverbs 31:10
If we compare a few versions of the Bible you’ll see how “eshet chayil” is translated differently:
New International Version
A wife of noble character who can find? She is worth far more than rubies.New Living Translation
Who can find a virtuous and capable wife? She is more precious than rubies.English Standard Version
An excellent wife who can find? She is far more precious than jewels.New American Standard Bible
An excellent wife, who can find? For her worth is far above jewels.New King James Version
Who can find a virtuous wife? For her worth is far above rubies.King James Bible
Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies.
Regardless, of how the words are translated, “eshet chayil” means woman of valor. The word valor conjures up all sorts of powerful images in my mind. I think of words like:
- strength
- courage
- wisdom
- dignity
- victory
The Proverbs 31 woman is a woman who has strength of character. She is ready for whatever battle comes her way because she knows that in every battle, Jesus goes before her.
“The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” Deuteronomy 31:8
Remember, you are not defined by your role as a wife, sister, mother, daughter, or employee. You are defined by your character and strength.
How is Proverbs 31 an acrostic poem?
An acrostic is a poem (or other form of writing) in which the first letter (or syllable, or word) of each line (or paragraph) spells out a word, message, or the alphabet.
Proverbs 31:10- 31 is an acrostic poem because in the original Hebrew each verse starts with the successive letter of the Hebrew alphabet. The poem begins with the Hebrew letter aleph and ends with the letter tau – basically the equivalent to our alphabet A – Z.
Other verses in the Bible that are acrostic poems include Psalm 119 and Lamentations 1-4.
What is Proverbs 31 in the bible?
Proverbs 31 in the Bible is a prophecy given to King Lemuel (believed to be King Solomon by most interpreters). We are told that His mother utters the inspired words in Proverbs 31:1.
What does Proverbs 31:25 mean?
Proverbs 31:25 says, “She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.”
The virtuous woman is clothed with strength and dignity means that she wears the character of Christ. Everyone around her – friends, or family, or folks in her community – see Christ in her. Her faith is strong.
“These trials will show that your faith is genuine. It is being tested as fire tests and purifies gold—though your faith is far more precious than mere gold. So when your faith remains strong through many trials, it will bring you much praise and glory and honor on the day when Jesus Christ is revealed to the whole world.” 1 Peter 1:7 NLT
“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:16
Her conduct is such that all who know her recognize that she is a woman of great faith.
“Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.” 1 Peter 2:12
- Humble service (John 13:1-5)
- Holiness (1 Peter 1:15-16)
- Righteousness (1 John 3:7)
- Purity (1 John 3:3)
- Obedience (John 14:23)
- Love (Ephesians 5:1-2)
- Joy (Psalm 47:1)
- Forgiveness (Colossians 3:13)
- Compassion (Ephesians 4:32)
- Endurance (Hebrews 12:2-4)
- Submission (1 Peter 2:21-24)
- Self control (2 Timothy 1:7)
- Humility (Philippians 2:5-8)
- Kindness (Luke 6:35)
- Generousity (2 Corinthians 8:1-9)
- Gentleness (Titus 3:2)
Where can I read a Proverbs 31 commentary?
You can read Matthew Henry’s Commentary on the Bible below:
- Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary on Proverbs 31
- Matthew Henry’s Complete Commentary on Proverbs 31
You can read the King James Version of Proverbs 31 here.
Was Ruth a Proverbs 31 Woman?
Yes! The Bible tell us the Ruth was a virtuous woman.
“And now, my daughter, do not fear. I will do for you all that you request, for all the people of my town know that you are a virtuous woman.” Ruth 3:11 NKJV
Notice that at the time Ruth was called a virtuous woman she did not have a husband or children. You can be a virtuous woman no matter what season of life you are in or whether you ever marry or have children.
Proverbs 31 Quotes
When you fill out the form below (at the end of the post) you’ll receive an email with access to my subscriber exclusive resource library. This beautiful Proverbs 31 quote art print in available as a free pdf download in my resource library!
Proverbs 31:25 which says, “Strength and honor are her clothing and she shall rejoice in time to come.”
How to Study Proverbs 31
It’s easy to study Proverbs 31 by cross referencing relevant Bible verses. The Bible always interprets itself – so we don’t have to wonder about what it means.
I have a free printable Bible study guide for Proverbs 31 that you can print out. It’s based on the 1o characteristics of the Proverbs 31 woman. Print it out and then look up each of the corresponding Bible verses. Just fill out the form below and you’ll get instant access to my subscriber exclusive resource library where you’ll find this Bible study guide and many more resources.
Actions Steps You can Take Today
- Ask God to give you wisdom and show you His purpose for your life. He will reveal His plan for your life!
- Make a commitment to start each day with God – even if it’s just a short prayer.
- Remember that you are justified by faith through grace and becoming a Proverbs 31 is the journey of a lifetime.
- Thank God for giving you a blueprint for living and for painting such a beautiful picture of womanhood.
- Tell others what God has done in your life!
More Posts about the Proverbs 31 Woman
- The 10 Virtues of the Proverbs 31 Woman
- Praying through Proverbs 31 | A Proverbs 31 Prayer
- 10 Characteristics of the Proverbs 31 Woman
- Bible Study Methods for the Proverbs 31 Woman
- Becoming a Proverbs 31 Woman
- A Simple Guide to Proverbs 31 Explained for Modern Women
- 10 Truths about the Proverbs 31 Woman You Should Know
- The Gospel Found in Proverbs 31
- A Proverbs 31 Bible Study | The Bride of Christ
- A Proverbs 31 Bible Study | A Faithful Wife
- 10 Virtues of the Proverbs 31 Woman eBook
- But the Proverbs 31 Woman had Maid Servants!
Learn More about Becoming a Proverbs 31 Woman
Proverbs 31 Free Printable Bible Study Guide | PDF
You can use this printable two page pdf as a Bible study guide to learn more about the virtuous woman and how you become a Proverbs 31 Woman today.
How to Download
- Just fill out the form below and you’ll receive an email with the link to download your free printable guide to becoming a Proverbs 31 Woman. You’ll also receive helpful emails and updates from me on a regular basis!
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