King James Version

What Does Proverbs 31:24 Mean?

Proverbs 31:24 in the King James Version says “She maketh fine linen, and selleth it; and delivereth girdles unto the merchant.” — study this verse from Proverbs chapter 31 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.

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

Proverbs 31:24 · KJV

Context

22

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

23

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

24

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

25

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

26

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

Read Proverbs 31 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
She maketh fine linen, and selleth it; and delivereth girdles unto the merchant—The ש (shin) line concludes with commercial enterprise. Sadin (fine linen) refers to quality undergarments or sheets, while chagor (girdles/sashes) were essential clothing items and trade goods. The verbs emphasize active commerce: she makes (ta'aseh), sells (timkor), and delivers (natenah) to the Kena'ani (Canaanite/merchant).

This verse demolishes any notion that biblical womanhood precludes economic agency. The eshet chayil produces goods, negotiates sales, and engages in commercial transactions. Her enterprise isn't rebellion against domestic calling but its fruit—household management generates marketable surplus. Proverbs envisions competent women as economic actors whose industry blesses family and community. This requires business acumen, not just domestic skill.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

In the ancient economy, home production and commercial trade were integrated, not separate spheres. Women commonly sold surplus household products—textiles, food, pottery—in local markets and to traveling merchants. This commercial activity was essential to household prosperity and entirely compatible with domestic responsibilities.

Reflection Questions

  1. How might you cultivate entrepreneurial thinking to create value beyond mere consumption?
  2. What skills or knowledge could you develop to contribute economically to your household or community?
  3. In what ways does Proverbs' vision of economic agency challenge both traditionalist restrictions and feminist resentments?

Original Language Analysis

Hebrew · 6 words
סָדִ֣ין1 of 6

“fine linen”

H5466

a wrapper, i.e., shirt

עָ֭שְׂתָה2 of 6

“She maketh”

H6213

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

וַתִּמְכֹּ֑ר3 of 6

“and selleth”

H4376

to sell, literally (as merchandise, a daughter in marriage, into slavery), or figuratively (to surrender)

וַ֝חֲג֗וֹר4 of 6

“girdles”

H2289

belted

נָתְנָ֥ה5 of 6

“it and delivereth”

H5414

to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)

לַֽכְּנַעֲנִֽי׃6 of 6

“unto the merchant”

H3669

a kenaanite or inhabitant of kenaan; by implication, a pedlar (the canaanites standing for their neighbors the ishmaelites, who conducted mercantile c

Study Guide

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 31:24 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 31:24 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Ezekiel 27:16Proverbs 31:13Proverbs 31:191 Kings 10:28Judges 14:12Luke 16:19

Test Your Knowledge

Proverbs 31 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapterProverbs Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

Continue Your Study

Read Proverbs 31 with CommentaryAll Proverbs ChaptersComplete Proverbs QuizBible CharactersNave's Topical BibleAll Bible Quizzes