Proverbs 31:10 KJV

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

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Proverbs 31:10 Bible Commentary

Proverbs 31:10 - Commentary

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

Introduction

Proverbs 31:10 marks the beginning of an acrostic poem that describes the "virtuous woman," a figure revered in the biblical text as the epitome of wisdom, strength, and virtue. The verse invites reflection on the nature and value of a godly woman, highlighting her rarity and the immense worth she brings to both her family and community.

Understanding Virtue

The term "virtuous" (or "noble" in some translations) implies more than moral integrity. According to Matthew Henry, this quality encompasses physical, mental, and spiritual traits that crystallize in action and character. A virtuous woman is one who embodies righteousness, excellence, strength, and dignity—qualities that contribute to her high value in the eyes of God and man.

Albert Barnes further elaborates that virtue is a composite of several characteristics, including kindness, industriousness, and wisdom. These attributes create a harmonious balance that manifests in her relationships and responsibilities, attesting to her overall worth.

The Inestimable Value

Proverbs 31:10 continues to assert that this virtuous woman’s “price is far above rubies.” The use of “rubies” symbolizes wealth and preciousness. Adam Clarke explains that the writer draws a parallel between the material riches of rubies and the moral and spiritual riches of a godly woman. Her value is not merely financial but intrinsic, suggesting that her character has a far-reaching impact that transcends monetary wealth.

The Rarity of the Virtuous Woman

The rhetorical question, "Who can find a virtuous woman?" implies that such women are rare and precious. Matthew Henry notes that the search for virtuous women is difficult, not due to a lack of potential but because true virtue involves a commitment to spiritual and moral integrity, which is not easily found in contemporary society.

The rarity of a virtuous woman calls to mind the biblical principle that those who seek wisdom must earnestly pursue it (Proverbs 2:4). This pursuit requires effort, discernment, and a deep commitment to personal character development—a message that resonates with pastors and educators alike.

Application for the Church and Society

  • Encouragement for Women: The portrait painted in Proverbs 31 serves as an encouragement for women to aspire to these high standards of virtue, demonstrating that their worth is not contingent upon societal norms but rooted in their relationship with God.
  • Men's Role: Pastors and leaders should emphasize the role of men in supporting and honoring the women in their lives who embody these virtuous traits. They should recognize and celebrate these contributions actively.
  • Community Impact: The community benefits significantly when virtuous women are acknowledged and their strengths enlisted in service. Their intricate roles in building families and influencing society demonstrate the importance of coming together as a body to uplift these values.

Conclusion

Proverbs 31:10 invites all readers—pastors, students, and scholars—to consider the profound implications of a virtuous life. It challenges us not only to recognize the value of such women but also to seek or cultivate such virtues within ourselves and in our communities. The search for virtue, illuminated by the wisdom of our forebears, remains ever relevant as we aspire to reflect the character of Christ in all our endeavors.

Reflection Questions

  • What attributes of a virtuous woman do you most admire, and how can you cultivate those in your life?
  • In what ways can the church support and elevate the roles of virtuous women in its community?
  • How can men contribute positively to the cultivation of virtue in the women around them?