Proverbs 31:23-31

23 Nun Her husband is known in the gates when he sits among the elders of the land.

24 Samech She made fine linen and sold it and delivered girdles unto the merchant.

25 Ain Strength and glory is her clothing, and she shall laugh in the last day.

26 Pe She opened her mouth with wisdom, and the law of mercy is upon her tongue.

27 Tzaddi She looks well to the ways of her household and does not eat bread in idleness.

28 Koph Her sons rose up and called her blessed; her husband also, and he praised her.

29 Resh Many daughters have done valiantly, but thou dost excel them all.

30 Schin Grace is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but the woman that fears the LORD shall be praised.

31 Tau Give her of the fruit of her hands, and let her own works praise her in the gates.

Proverbs 31:23-31 Meaning and Commentary

INTRODUCTION TO PROVERBS 31

This chapter contains the last part of the book of Proverbs; which some reckon the fifth, others the sixth. It contains the instructions of the mother of a prince, whose name was Lemuel, which she gave unto him; and which are so valuable, as to be annexed to the proverbs of Solomon. The preface or introduction to them is in Pr 31:1; the address to her son, Pr 31:2. The vices she cautions him against are uncleanness and intemperance; which she dissuades from, because of the pernicious consequences of both to kings and to their subjects, Pr 31:3-5. Advises rather to give wine and strong drink to poor people, such as are in distress; as being more useful to them, at least less prejudicial, Pr 31:6,7; and exhorts her son to the duties of his office; by pleading the cause of the poor and injured, and administering justice to them, Pr 31:8,9. And then at large describes a virtuous woman; perhaps designed as an instruction to her son in the choice of a wife, Pr 31:10-31; though more than that may be intended by it.