King James Version
What Does Proverbs 31:10 Mean?
“Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies.”
Context
8
Open thy mouth for the dumb in the cause of all such as are appointed to destruction. such: Heb. the sons of destruction
9
Open thy mouth, judge righteously, and plead the cause of the poor and needy.
10
Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies.
11
The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil.
12
She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English ReadersAPPENDIX (c).—THE PRAISE OF A GOOD WIFE. (Proverbs 31:10, *sqq.*)
This is written in the form of an acrostic, the twenty-two verses composing it each commencing with a letter of the Hebrew alphabet. This may have been done, as in the case of several of the psalms, which are of a didactic character (e.g., 25, 34, 37, 119), to render it more easy for committal to memory. By some writers the acrostic form has been supposed to argue a late date for the poem, but there is no evidence for this. One psalm, at all events, of which there seems no reason to doubt the Davidic authorship—the 9th—is cast in this form.
(10) **Who can find a virtuous woman?**—Various mystical interpretations of the person here implied have been held at different times. She has been supposed to signify the Law, the Church, the Holy Spirit.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Proverbs. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Proverbs 31:10 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Proverbs 31:10
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge