Three little-known facts about Proverbs 31 and the dreaded Proverbs 31 Woman
Ah yes, the Proverbs 31 Woman…trotted out every Mother’s Day, making wives and mothers feel guilty because they’re not matching up to this legendary superwoman. Of course, she shares a chapter with a piece of counsel for kings, but nobody loses sleep over verses 1–9; the woman in verses 10–31 gets all the glory.
Here are three fast facts about Proverbs 31 that might transform your view of this passage.
1. Proverbs 31 was not written primarily for women. It was written for young men (verse 1).
The words of King Lemuel. An oracle that his mother taught him.
2. The main point of Proverbs 31:10–31 is found in verse 30. It is intended for unmarried young men.
Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain,
but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.
3. The only commandment given in Proverbs 31:10–31 is found in the final verse. It is not directed toward the woman.
Give her the fruit of her hands,
and let her works praise her in the gates.
That is all.
Posted on February 24, 2010, in Reflections and tagged mothers, Proverbs, wives, women. Bookmark the permalink. 3 Comments.
Where’s my fruit?
I suppose it’s metaphorical but somedays I’d prefer a mango or perhaps a watermelon.
Cherie, it’s the fruit of your hands…you have to plant a mango tree first!
Yes, I’d much rather our pastor cover Proverbs 30 on Mother’s Day!