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Proverbs 31

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1The words of king Lemuel, the prophecy that his mother taught him.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
CHAPTER 31

Pr 31:1-31.

1. On the title of this, the sixth part of the book, see Introduction.

prophecy--(See on Pr 30:1).

2What, my son? and what, the son of my womb? and what, the son of my vows?

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
2. What, my son?--that is, What shall I say? Repetitions denote earnestness.

son of my womb--as our phrase, "my own son," a term of special affection.

son of my vows--as one dedicated to God; so the word "Lemuel" may mean.

3Give not thy strength unto women, nor thy ways to that which destroyeth kings.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
3-9. 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.

strength--mental and bodily resources for health and comfort.

thy ways--or course of life.

to that ... kings--literally, "to the destroying of kings," avoid destructive pleasures (compare Pr 5:9; 7:22, 27; Ho 4:11).

4It is not for kings, O Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine; nor for princes strong drink:

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
3-9. 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.

strength--mental and bodily resources for health and comfort.

thy ways--or course of life.

to that ... kings--literally, "to the destroying of kings," avoid destructive pleasures (compare Pr 5:9; 7:22, 27; Ho 4:11).

5Lest they drink, and forget the law, and pervert the judgment of any of the afflicted.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
3-9. 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.

strength--mental and bodily resources for health and comfort.

thy ways--or course of life.

to that ... kings--literally, "to the destroying of kings," avoid destructive pleasures (compare Pr 5:9; 7:22, 27; Ho 4:11).

6Give strong drink unto him that is ready to perish, and wine unto those that be of heavy hearts.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
3-9. 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.

strength--mental and bodily resources for health and comfort.

thy ways--or course of life.

to that ... kings--literally, "to the destroying of kings," avoid destructive pleasures (compare Pr 5:9; 7:22, 27; Ho 4:11).

7Let him drink, and forget his poverty, and remember his misery no more.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
3-9. 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.

strength--mental and bodily resources for health and comfort.

thy ways--or course of life.

to that ... kings--literally, "to the destroying of kings," avoid destructive pleasures (compare Pr 5:9; 7:22, 27; Ho 4:11).

8Open thy mouth for the dumb in the cause of all such as are appointed to destruction.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
3-9. 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.

strength--mental and bodily resources for health and comfort.

thy ways--or course of life.

to that ... kings--literally, "to the destroying of kings," avoid destructive pleasures (compare Pr 5:9; 7:22, 27; Ho 4:11).

9Open thy mouth, judge righteously, and plead the cause of the poor and needy.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
3-9. 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.

strength--mental and bodily resources for health and comfort.

thy ways--or course of life.

to that ... kings--literally, "to the destroying of kings," avoid destructive pleasures (compare Pr 5:9; 7:22, 27; Ho 4:11).

10Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
10-31. 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).

Who ... woman--The question implies that such are rare, though not entirely wanting (compare Pr 18:22; 19:14).

virtuous--literally, "of strength," that is, moral courage (compare Pr 12:4; Ru 3:11).

her price, &c.--(compare Pr 3:15).

11The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
10-31. 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).

Who ... woman--The question implies that such are rare, though not entirely wanting (compare Pr 18:22; 19:14).

virtuous--literally, "of strength," that is, moral courage (compare Pr 12:4; Ru 3:11).

her price, &c.--(compare Pr 3:15).

12She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
10-31. 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).

Who ... woman--The question implies that such are rare, though not entirely wanting (compare Pr 18:22; 19:14).

virtuous--literally, "of strength," that is, moral courage (compare Pr 12:4; Ru 3:11).

her price, &c.--(compare Pr 3:15).

13She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
10-31. 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).

Who ... woman--The question implies that such are rare, though not entirely wanting (compare Pr 18:22; 19:14).

virtuous--literally, "of strength," that is, moral courage (compare Pr 12:4; Ru 3:11).

her price, &c.--(compare Pr 3:15).

14She is like the merchants’ ships; she bringeth her food from afar.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
10-31. 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).

Who ... woman--The question implies that such are rare, though not entirely wanting (compare Pr 18:22; 19:14).

virtuous--literally, "of strength," that is, moral courage (compare Pr 12:4; Ru 3:11).

her price, &c.--(compare Pr 3:15).

15She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
10-31. 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).

Who ... woman--The question implies that such are rare, though not entirely wanting (compare Pr 18:22; 19:14).

virtuous--literally, "of strength," that is, moral courage (compare Pr 12:4; Ru 3:11).

her price, &c.--(compare Pr 3:15).

16She considereth a field, and buyeth it: with the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
10-31. 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).

Who ... woman--The question implies that such are rare, though not entirely wanting (compare Pr 18:22; 19:14).

virtuous--literally, "of strength," that is, moral courage (compare Pr 12:4; Ru 3:11).

her price, &c.--(compare Pr 3:15).

17She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
10-31. 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).

Who ... woman--The question implies that such are rare, though not entirely wanting (compare Pr 18:22; 19:14).

virtuous--literally, "of strength," that is, moral courage (compare Pr 12:4; Ru 3:11).

her price, &c.--(compare Pr 3:15).

18She perceiveth that her merchandise is good: her candle goeth not out by night.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
10-31. 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).

Who ... woman--The question implies that such are rare, though not entirely wanting (compare Pr 18:22; 19:14).

virtuous--literally, "of strength," that is, moral courage (compare Pr 12:4; Ru 3:11).

her price, &c.--(compare Pr 3:15).

19She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
10-31. 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).

Who ... woman--The question implies that such are rare, though not entirely wanting (compare Pr 18:22; 19:14).

virtuous--literally, "of strength," that is, moral courage (compare Pr 12:4; Ru 3:11).

her price, &c.--(compare Pr 3:15).

20She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
10-31. 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).

Who ... woman--The question implies that such are rare, though not entirely wanting (compare Pr 18:22; 19:14).

virtuous--literally, "of strength," that is, moral courage (compare Pr 12:4; Ru 3:11).

her price, &c.--(compare Pr 3:15).

21She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household are clothed with scarlet.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
10-31. 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).

Who ... woman--The question implies that such are rare, though not entirely wanting (compare Pr 18:22; 19:14).

virtuous--literally, "of strength," that is, moral courage (compare Pr 12:4; Ru 3:11).

her price, &c.--(compare Pr 3:15).

22She maketh herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing is silk and purple.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
10-31. 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).

Who ... woman--The question implies that such are rare, though not entirely wanting (compare Pr 18:22; 19:14).

virtuous--literally, "of strength," that is, moral courage (compare Pr 12:4; Ru 3:11).

her price, &c.--(compare Pr 3:15).

23Her husband is known in the gates, when he sitteth among the elders of the land.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
10-31. 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).

Who ... woman--The question implies that such are rare, though not entirely wanting (compare Pr 18:22; 19:14).

virtuous--literally, "of strength," that is, moral courage (compare Pr 12:4; Ru 3:11).

her price, &c.--(compare Pr 3:15).

24She maketh fine linen, and selleth it; and delivereth girdles unto the merchant.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
10-31. 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).

Who ... woman--The question implies that such are rare, though not entirely wanting (compare Pr 18:22; 19:14).

virtuous--literally, "of strength," that is, moral courage (compare Pr 12:4; Ru 3:11).

her price, &c.--(compare Pr 3:15).

25Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
10-31. 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).

Who ... woman--The question implies that such are rare, though not entirely wanting (compare Pr 18:22; 19:14).

virtuous--literally, "of strength," that is, moral courage (compare Pr 12:4; Ru 3:11).

her price, &c.--(compare Pr 3:15).

26She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
10-31. 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).

Who ... woman--The question implies that such are rare, though not entirely wanting (compare Pr 18:22; 19:14).

virtuous--literally, "of strength," that is, moral courage (compare Pr 12:4; Ru 3:11).

her price, &c.--(compare Pr 3:15).

27She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
10-31. 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).

Who ... woman--The question implies that such are rare, though not entirely wanting (compare Pr 18:22; 19:14).

virtuous--literally, "of strength," that is, moral courage (compare Pr 12:4; Ru 3:11).

her price, &c.--(compare Pr 3:15).

28Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
10-31. 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).

Who ... woman--The question implies that such are rare, though not entirely wanting (compare Pr 18:22; 19:14).

virtuous--literally, "of strength," that is, moral courage (compare Pr 12:4; Ru 3:11).

her price, &c.--(compare Pr 3:15).

29Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
10-31. 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).

Who ... woman--The question implies that such are rare, though not entirely wanting (compare Pr 18:22; 19:14).

virtuous--literally, "of strength," that is, moral courage (compare Pr 12:4; Ru 3:11).

her price, &c.--(compare Pr 3:15).

30Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
10-31. 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).

Who ... woman--The question implies that such are rare, though not entirely wanting (compare Pr 18:22; 19:14).

virtuous--literally, "of strength," that is, moral courage (compare Pr 12:4; Ru 3:11).

her price, &c.--(compare Pr 3:15).

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

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
10-31. 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).

Who ... woman--The question implies that such are rare, though not entirely wanting (compare Pr 18:22; 19:14).

virtuous--literally, "of strength," that is, moral courage (compare Pr 12:4; Ru 3:11).

her price, &c.--(compare Pr 3:15).
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