Proverbs, Chapter 31 - The Virtuous Woman

Paraphrased Commentary

By John Gills

The words of King Lemuel have sparked much debate among scholars, largely due to the lack of historical records of a king by that name. Some, like Grotius, speculate King Lemuel might actually be King Hezekiah, suggesting that his mother Abijah, believed to be well-learned, might have passed down this wisdom. However, this assumption mainly relies on the chapter's placement after proverbs collected by Hezekiah's men. But, with no evidence linking Hezekiah to the troubling behaviors Lemuel is warned against, this theory remains flimsy.

Bishop Patrick provides a more adventurous theory that Lemuel could be a prince from a different land, possibly Chaldea, pointing to the use of Chaldee terms in the text. He suggests that Lemuel’s mother might have been a Jewish woman educating her son. Still, the most widely accepted view is that King Lemuel was none other than Solomon himself. According to this interpretation, "Lemuel" could be a pet name given by his mother, Bathsheba, indicating "belonging to God" or "devoted to God," reflecting Solomon's connection with the divine, as also seen in his other name, Jedidiah.

This text is often dubbed a "prophecy" due to its anticipatory wisdom, possibly stemming from Bathsheba’s foresight into the challenges her son would encounter. It hints at her deep understanding, whether through natural intuition or divine inspiration. These maternal nuggets of wisdom, much like those David imparted to Solomon, were clearly significant. Alas, it seems Solomon may not have fully heeded his mother's prudence, a timeless reminder of the sometimes overlooked value of parental advice.

Read more: John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

Paraphrased Commentary

By John Gills

What can I say to you, my son? Even though you are a king, can I find a more fitting or affectionate way to address you? Let me speak to you as your mother. I struggle to find the right words and wisdom. If only I knew what to say to guide you properly. I have important things to discuss, so please listen. I don't want anything from your kingdom or a share in its governance. All I ask is that you steer clear of vices and fulfill your royal duties.

Alas, my son, is this truly the life you wish to lead, surrendering yourself to wine and women? Is this behavior befitting of your birth, education, and stature? Think of all the effort I've invested in raising you with care and religious principles, preparing you for a purposeful life in both church and state. You are my own flesh and blood, not an adopted son, and everything I say comes from a place of pure love and concern for your well-being.

You are also the son of my vows—the child I fervently prayed for and promised to dedicate to God, much like Hannah did with her son Samuel. Many prayers and vows have been made for your temporal and spiritual success. Remember the many aspirations and commitments I had, hoping to see you grow into a man and assume the throne of Israel.

Read more: John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

Paraphrased Commentary

By John Gills

In essence, the passage advises against expending one’s energy, both physical and intellectual, on excessive indulgence in relationships with multiple women. Such behaviors can lead to weakened strength and squandered wisdom, as illustrated in Proverbs 5:9 and Proverbs 6:26. Harlots, the passage warns, can drain a man's wealth, reducing him to poverty—something even kings and princes aren't immune to.

Furthermore, it cautions against pursuing paths that lead to the downfall of rulers. This might mean avoiding being entangled with destructive relationships or possibly refraining from overly ambitious or aggressive actions, such as waging unnecessary wars. The Targum interprets this as a warning specifically against courting the daughters of kings, while historical wisdom points to King Solomon—infamous for his numerous wives—as a prime example of how such pursuits can erode both mind and counsel.

In short, it's a timeless piece of advice: be judicious with your resources and decisions, lest they lead to your undoing.

Read more: John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

Paraphrased Commentary

By John Gills

Long gone are the days when kings could freely indulge in excessive drinking without repercussions. Addressing Lemuel, the ancient scriptures deliver a stern warning: it’s unbecoming and dishonorable for those in positions of power to lose themselves to wine or strong drinks. While it isn’t unlawful for rulers to enjoy a drink moderately, the call is for restraint to avoid the shame and inefficiency that comes with inebriation. This isn’t just about personal dignity but about upholding the gravity and respect of their offices.

Solomon, despite this advice, reportedly didn’t shy away from wine, much like he did with women. The ancient texts even suggest avoiding the company of such indulgent kings and princes. The message stands clear today: leaders must exercise discipline and avoid behavior that could undermine their responsibilities and stature.

Read more: John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

Paraphrased Commentary

By John Gills

"There's a warning here about the dangers of allowing leaders, specifically kings and judges, to indulge in excessive drinking. The idea is that alcohol can cloud the mind and make it hard to remember important laws and principles. This was especially significant for the kings of Israel, who were expected to keep and frequently read a personal copy of God's law handed down by Moses. The concern is that a king or judge, under the influence, might forget these laws or the traditions they were meant to uphold.

Moreover, a leader impaired by drink is unlikely to administer justice fairly. Drunkenness can lead to confusion and poor judgment, potentially harming those who are already vulnerable or afflicted. A judge or king in such a state wouldn't be able to properly assess the facts or remember the rules they need to follow. This could lead to incorrect rulings and injustice.

An anecdote involving Philip of Macedon highlights this point. When he drunkenly condemned a woman, she remarked that she wished to appeal his decision—when he was sober. Her comment prompted him to reassess her case with a clear head, which led to a fairer outcome.

The takeaway? Sober leadership is essential for just governance. Leaders must remain clear-headed to ensure they rule wisely and justly."

Read more: John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

Paraphrased Commentary

By John Gills

John Gill's intricate and lengthy commentary can be broken down into a simpler concept: When someone is struggling with severe poverty and misery, they should be allowed a bit of relief, such as a drink, to ease their harsh circumstances temporarily. This isn’t about promoting escapism but offering a brief respite from their constant worries.

Gill suggests that a little wine can make them forget their immediate troubles and alleviate the physical and mental toll of their hardships. He even touches on historical and literary references where wine was used to dispel sorrow and bring some sense of forgetfulness, likening it to how wine or potions were given to those facing execution in ancient times to numb their suffering.

In a spiritual sense, Gill parallels this to the "wine" of the Gospel — the good news and blessings of faith that can relieve a person's spiritual poverty, guilt, and heavy heart. When people in dire states are given hope and reminded of divine love and grace, they can feel rich in faith and liberated from their past miseries.

At its core, Gill's message is about the power of a temporary reprieve and, more deeply, the transformative effect of spiritual solace in the face of life's harshest realities.

Read more: John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

Paraphrased Commentary

By John Gills

"Speak up and judge fairly," rings an age-old wisdom, urging leaders to deliver justice boldly and impartially, unbowed by the influence of the unscrupulous. It's a call to be the voice for the voiceless—those whom society often overlooks and the wealthy oppress. They cannot afford lawyers or fight for themselves, leaving them vulnerable and unheard. Lemuel's mother, in her timeless advice, emphasizes the need for just governance, encouraging her son to steer clear of distractions like excessive drinking and unsuitable relationships. Instead, she nudges him to focus on his responsibilities—being an unwavering advocate and fair judge, especially for the poor and distressed.

Read more: John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

Paraphrased Commentary

By John Gills

She'll always treat him well, never bad. She'll show gratitude for everything he does for her, always looking out for his best interests and doing all she can to support and uplift him. Whether it's through her actions or the way she carries herself, everything she does reflects back on him in a positive light. She'll avoid knowingly doing anything that could harm his reputation or go against his beliefs.

This commitment to him isn’t temporary; it’s for her entire life. She aims to serve him with integrity and consistency, always dedicating herself fully to the cause.

Read more: John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

Paraphrased Commentary

By John Gills

In a manner befitting an industrious heroine, she equips herself with strength, ready for any task that comes her way. Symbolic of the Eastern tradition of girding up long garments for serious work, her actions reflect swift, spirited, and resolute undertaking, just as referenced in Luke 17:8 and echoed in Job 40:16 where the loins are synonymous with strength.

Moreover, she fortifies her arms—performing her duties with vigor and enthusiasm. This is reminiscent of the church, which does not rely on its own power but seeks and finds strength in Christ. The Book of Genesis 49:24 highlights this divine empowerment, suggesting that through seeking strength from above, her capabilities are amplified. In this way, she is portrayed as embracing a robust and daring spirit, much like the encouragement to "act like men" found in 1 Corinthians 16:13.

Read more: John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

Paraphrased Commentary

By John Gills

In the Book of Proverbs, there's a vivid portrayal of a hardworking, industrious woman. She is described as one who "layeth her hands to the spindle," much like Penelope and her handmaidens from ancient tales. Simply put, she’s turning a spinning wheel with her right hand and holding the distaff—the tool used to spin wool—with her left.

Not only does this woman seek out the wool and flax herself, but she also spins them into garments. This isn't like a spider spinning a web from its own body, which is a frail setup likened to the fleeting trust of a hypocrite. Instead, her efforts result in something substantial, something that can clothe and protect her community. Her work is both practical and beautiful, serving to enhance their standing and guard against criticism. The good deeds she accomplishes, as interpreted by scholars like Ambrose, serve as both decoration and defense in the social fabric of her world.

Read more: John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

Paraphrased Commentary

By John Gills

The passage offers a reflection on the resourcefulness and care of a woman who ensures that her household is well-prepared for the harshness of winter. Rather than fearing the cold and snow, she ensures her family is adequately clothed. Some interpretations suggest that "clothed with scarlet" actually refers to wearing double layers of clothing, better suited to keeping warm. This is likened to a spiritual covering provided by Christ's righteousness, which believers hold as a protective garment against life's adversities.

The mention of scarlet coloring further symbolizes Christ's blood, which, in Christian theology, justifies and sanctifies the believers, offering them a form of spiritual insulation against both divine judgment and worldly reproach. Essentially, this wise and caring woman's preparations for winter serve as a metaphor for spiritual readiness and protection, emphasizing that through faith, her household is well-prepared to face both physical and spiritual challenges.

Read more: John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

Paraphrased Commentary

By John Gills

In the bustling courts of ancient city gates, where elders convened to dispense justice, a certain woman's husband stood out. His reputation wasn't just tied to the fine garments crafted by his virtuous spouse, but rather to his wisdom and the fact he could devote himself fully to public affairs, thanks to her adept management of domestic matters.

Shifting to a grander scale, the text parallels this husband with Christ, portraying him as the ultimate nurturing partner of the church and its believers. Christ's love, protection, and provisioning for his followers make him a universally recognized figure, revered in church assemblies and celebrated wherever the Gospel reaches.

This imagery continues with Christ depicted as a respected leader, sitting among his saints—whether symbolically represented by the twenty-four elders of the Gospel churches or the arriving patriarchs, prophets, and apostles. As he exerts his power and reigns gloriously, these ancient figures, once loved and chosen by him, join in his circle. This all builds up to the moment of the final judgment, where Christ, with his esteemed elders beside him, will preside over the world in an ultimate display of heavenly justice and grandeur.

Read more: John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

Paraphrased Commentary

By John Gills

In the hustle and bustle of managing a household, a woman ensures that her home runs smoothly and everything is in its right place. She makes sure her children and staff are well-fed and appropriately dressed, attending to their needs with care and precision. It's a seamless operation where everyone fulfills their responsibilities, maintaining order and adhering to the household's principles.

This diligent homemaker is not just about keeping appearances; she also cares deeply for the well-being of her family and employees. She tends to the sick, uplifts those who are struggling, and handles any troublemakers by addressing their issues head-on or, if necessary, showing them the door.

She is vigilant about the moral and spiritual compass of her home, ensuring that it aligns with her faith and values. Whether it's the physical upkeep of her home or the spiritual journey towards higher ideals, she guides her family with a clear sense of purpose.

Moreover, she is not one to sit idly by; she is industrious and dedicated, working hard to provide for her family. Her efforts are not just to meet immediate needs but to secure something more enduring, akin to spiritual nourishment that sustains over a lifetime.

In essence, this woman exemplifies diligence, practical wisdom, and a nurturing spirit, creating a harmonious and balanced home environment.

Read more: John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

Paraphrased Commentary

By John Gills

In a heartfelt appeal, a husband encourages his children to honor their mother by acknowledging the fruits of her labor. Scholar Aben Ezra suggests he's asking them to give her the praise she rightly deserves. Jarchi, interpreting for a future perspective, asserts that the virtues cultivated by believers—like faith, hope, love, and patience—will shine brightly, earning recognition from God, people, and angels alike.

Moving to public recognition, the text also suggests that a woman's deeds will stand testament at the city gates, where her husband is known. This is reminiscent of the grand day when everyone’s works will be acknowledged, echoing sentiments of public praise and divine commendation. Interestingly, some versions even suggest that the husband will receive praise as well, highlighting the collective honor of a righteous life.

Read more: John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

Paraphrased Commentary

By John Gills

The words of King Lemuel have sparked much debate among scholars, largely due to the lack of historical records of a king by that name. Some, like Grotius, speculate King Lemuel might actually be King Hezekiah, suggesting that his mother Abijah, believed to be well-learned, might have passed down this wisdom. However, this assumption mainly relies on the chapter's placement after proverbs collected by Hezekiah's men. But, with no evidence linking Hezekiah to the troubling behaviors Lemuel is warned against, this theory remains flimsy.

Bishop Patrick provides a more adventurous theory that Lemuel could be a prince from a different land, possibly Chaldea, pointing to the use of Chaldee terms in the text. He suggests that Lemuel’s mother might have been a Jewish woman educating her son. Still, the most widely accepted view is that King Lemuel was none other than Solomon himself. According to this interpretation, "Lemuel" could be a pet name given by his mother, Bathsheba, indicating "belonging to God" or "devoted to God," reflecting Solomon's connection with the divine, as also seen in his other name, Jedidiah.

This text is often dubbed a "prophecy" due to its anticipatory wisdom, possibly stemming from Bathsheba’s foresight into the challenges her son would encounter. It hints at her deep understanding, whether through natural intuition or divine inspiration. These maternal nuggets of wisdom, much like those David imparted to Solomon, were clearly significant. Alas, it seems Solomon may not have fully heeded his mother's prudence, a timeless reminder of the sometimes overlooked value of parental advice.

Read more: John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

Paraphrased Commentary

By John Gills

What can I say to you, my son? Even though you are a king, can I find a more fitting or affectionate way to address you? Let me speak to you as your mother. I struggle to find the right words and wisdom. If only I knew what to say to guide you properly. I have important things to discuss, so please listen. I don't want anything from your kingdom or a share in its governance. All I ask is that you steer clear of vices and fulfill your royal duties.

Alas, my son, is this truly the life you wish to lead, surrendering yourself to wine and women? Is this behavior befitting of your birth, education, and stature? Think of all the effort I've invested in raising you with care and religious principles, preparing you for a purposeful life in both church and state. You are my own flesh and blood, not an adopted son, and everything I say comes from a place of pure love and concern for your well-being.

You are also the son of my vows—the child I fervently prayed for and promised to dedicate to God, much like Hannah did with her son Samuel. Many prayers and vows have been made for your temporal and spiritual success. Remember the many aspirations and commitments I had, hoping to see you grow into a man and assume the throne of Israel.

Read more: John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

Paraphrased Commentary

By John Gills

In essence, the passage advises against expending one’s energy, both physical and intellectual, on excessive indulgence in relationships with multiple women. Such behaviors can lead to weakened strength and squandered wisdom, as illustrated in Proverbs 5:9 and Proverbs 6:26. Harlots, the passage warns, can drain a man's wealth, reducing him to poverty—something even kings and princes aren't immune to.

Furthermore, it cautions against pursuing paths that lead to the downfall of rulers. This might mean avoiding being entangled with destructive relationships or possibly refraining from overly ambitious or aggressive actions, such as waging unnecessary wars. The Targum interprets this as a warning specifically against courting the daughters of kings, while historical wisdom points to King Solomon—infamous for his numerous wives—as a prime example of how such pursuits can erode both mind and counsel.

In short, it's a timeless piece of advice: be judicious with your resources and decisions, lest they lead to your undoing.

Read more: John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

Paraphrased Commentary

By John Gills

Long gone are the days when kings could freely indulge in excessive drinking without repercussions. Addressing Lemuel, the ancient scriptures deliver a stern warning: it’s unbecoming and dishonorable for those in positions of power to lose themselves to wine or strong drinks. While it isn’t unlawful for rulers to enjoy a drink moderately, the call is for restraint to avoid the shame and inefficiency that comes with inebriation. This isn’t just about personal dignity but about upholding the gravity and respect of their offices.

Solomon, despite this advice, reportedly didn’t shy away from wine, much like he did with women. The ancient texts even suggest avoiding the company of such indulgent kings and princes. The message stands clear today: leaders must exercise discipline and avoid behavior that could undermine their responsibilities and stature.

Read more: John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

Paraphrased Commentary

By John Gills

"There's a warning here about the dangers of allowing leaders, specifically kings and judges, to indulge in excessive drinking. The idea is that alcohol can cloud the mind and make it hard to remember important laws and principles. This was especially significant for the kings of Israel, who were expected to keep and frequently read a personal copy of God's law handed down by Moses. The concern is that a king or judge, under the influence, might forget these laws or the traditions they were meant to uphold.

Moreover, a leader impaired by drink is unlikely to administer justice fairly. Drunkenness can lead to confusion and poor judgment, potentially harming those who are already vulnerable or afflicted. A judge or king in such a state wouldn't be able to properly assess the facts or remember the rules they need to follow. This could lead to incorrect rulings and injustice.

An anecdote involving Philip of Macedon highlights this point. When he drunkenly condemned a woman, she remarked that she wished to appeal his decision—when he was sober. Her comment prompted him to reassess her case with a clear head, which led to a fairer outcome.

The takeaway? Sober leadership is essential for just governance. Leaders must remain clear-headed to ensure they rule wisely and justly."

Read more: John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

Paraphrased Commentary

By John Gills

John Gill's intricate and lengthy commentary can be broken down into a simpler concept: When someone is struggling with severe poverty and misery, they should be allowed a bit of relief, such as a drink, to ease their harsh circumstances temporarily. This isn’t about promoting escapism but offering a brief respite from their constant worries.

Gill suggests that a little wine can make them forget their immediate troubles and alleviate the physical and mental toll of their hardships. He even touches on historical and literary references where wine was used to dispel sorrow and bring some sense of forgetfulness, likening it to how wine or potions were given to those facing execution in ancient times to numb their suffering.

In a spiritual sense, Gill parallels this to the "wine" of the Gospel — the good news and blessings of faith that can relieve a person's spiritual poverty, guilt, and heavy heart. When people in dire states are given hope and reminded of divine love and grace, they can feel rich in faith and liberated from their past miseries.

At its core, Gill's message is about the power of a temporary reprieve and, more deeply, the transformative effect of spiritual solace in the face of life's harshest realities.

Read more: John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

Paraphrased Commentary

By John Gills

"Speak up and judge fairly," rings an age-old wisdom, urging leaders to deliver justice boldly and impartially, unbowed by the influence of the unscrupulous. It's a call to be the voice for the voiceless—those whom society often overlooks and the wealthy oppress. They cannot afford lawyers or fight for themselves, leaving them vulnerable and unheard. Lemuel's mother, in her timeless advice, emphasizes the need for just governance, encouraging her son to steer clear of distractions like excessive drinking and unsuitable relationships. Instead, she nudges him to focus on his responsibilities—being an unwavering advocate and fair judge, especially for the poor and distressed.

Read more: John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

Paraphrased Commentary

By John Gills

She'll always treat him well, never bad. She'll show gratitude for everything he does for her, always looking out for his best interests and doing all she can to support and uplift him. Whether it's through her actions or the way she carries herself, everything she does reflects back on him in a positive light. She'll avoid knowingly doing anything that could harm his reputation or go against his beliefs.

This commitment to him isn’t temporary; it’s for her entire life. She aims to serve him with integrity and consistency, always dedicating herself fully to the cause.

Read more: John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

Paraphrased Commentary

By John Gills

In a manner befitting an industrious heroine, she equips herself with strength, ready for any task that comes her way. Symbolic of the Eastern tradition of girding up long garments for serious work, her actions reflect swift, spirited, and resolute undertaking, just as referenced in Luke 17:8 and echoed in Job 40:16 where the loins are synonymous with strength.

Moreover, she fortifies her arms—performing her duties with vigor and enthusiasm. This is reminiscent of the church, which does not rely on its own power but seeks and finds strength in Christ. The Book of Genesis 49:24 highlights this divine empowerment, suggesting that through seeking strength from above, her capabilities are amplified. In this way, she is portrayed as embracing a robust and daring spirit, much like the encouragement to "act like men" found in 1 Corinthians 16:13.

Read more: John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

Paraphrased Commentary

By John Gills

In the Book of Proverbs, there's a vivid portrayal of a hardworking, industrious woman. She is described as one who "layeth her hands to the spindle," much like Penelope and her handmaidens from ancient tales. Simply put, she’s turning a spinning wheel with her right hand and holding the distaff—the tool used to spin wool—with her left.

Not only does this woman seek out the wool and flax herself, but she also spins them into garments. This isn't like a spider spinning a web from its own body, which is a frail setup likened to the fleeting trust of a hypocrite. Instead, her efforts result in something substantial, something that can clothe and protect her community. Her work is both practical and beautiful, serving to enhance their standing and guard against criticism. The good deeds she accomplishes, as interpreted by scholars like Ambrose, serve as both decoration and defense in the social fabric of her world.

Read more: John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

Paraphrased Commentary

By John Gills

The passage offers a reflection on the resourcefulness and care of a woman who ensures that her household is well-prepared for the harshness of winter. Rather than fearing the cold and snow, she ensures her family is adequately clothed. Some interpretations suggest that "clothed with scarlet" actually refers to wearing double layers of clothing, better suited to keeping warm. This is likened to a spiritual covering provided by Christ's righteousness, which believers hold as a protective garment against life's adversities.

The mention of scarlet coloring further symbolizes Christ's blood, which, in Christian theology, justifies and sanctifies the believers, offering them a form of spiritual insulation against both divine judgment and worldly reproach. Essentially, this wise and caring woman's preparations for winter serve as a metaphor for spiritual readiness and protection, emphasizing that through faith, her household is well-prepared to face both physical and spiritual challenges.

Read more: John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

Paraphrased Commentary

By John Gills

In the bustling courts of ancient city gates, where elders convened to dispense justice, a certain woman's husband stood out. His reputation wasn't just tied to the fine garments crafted by his virtuous spouse, but rather to his wisdom and the fact he could devote himself fully to public affairs, thanks to her adept management of domestic matters.

Shifting to a grander scale, the text parallels this husband with Christ, portraying him as the ultimate nurturing partner of the church and its believers. Christ's love, protection, and provisioning for his followers make him a universally recognized figure, revered in church assemblies and celebrated wherever the Gospel reaches.

This imagery continues with Christ depicted as a respected leader, sitting among his saints—whether symbolically represented by the twenty-four elders of the Gospel churches or the arriving patriarchs, prophets, and apostles. As he exerts his power and reigns gloriously, these ancient figures, once loved and chosen by him, join in his circle. This all builds up to the moment of the final judgment, where Christ, with his esteemed elders beside him, will preside over the world in an ultimate display of heavenly justice and grandeur.

Read more: John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

Paraphrased Commentary

By John Gills

In the hustle and bustle of managing a household, a woman ensures that her home runs smoothly and everything is in its right place. She makes sure her children and staff are well-fed and appropriately dressed, attending to their needs with care and precision. It's a seamless operation where everyone fulfills their responsibilities, maintaining order and adhering to the household's principles.

This diligent homemaker is not just about keeping appearances; she also cares deeply for the well-being of her family and employees. She tends to the sick, uplifts those who are struggling, and handles any troublemakers by addressing their issues head-on or, if necessary, showing them the door.

She is vigilant about the moral and spiritual compass of her home, ensuring that it aligns with her faith and values. Whether it's the physical upkeep of her home or the spiritual journey towards higher ideals, she guides her family with a clear sense of purpose.

Moreover, she is not one to sit idly by; she is industrious and dedicated, working hard to provide for her family. Her efforts are not just to meet immediate needs but to secure something more enduring, akin to spiritual nourishment that sustains over a lifetime.

In essence, this woman exemplifies diligence, practical wisdom, and a nurturing spirit, creating a harmonious and balanced home environment.

Read more: John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible

Paraphrased Commentary

By John Gills

In a heartfelt appeal, a husband encourages his children to honor their mother by acknowledging the fruits of her labor. Scholar Aben Ezra suggests he's asking them to give her the praise she rightly deserves. Jarchi, interpreting for a future perspective, asserts that the virtues cultivated by believers—like faith, hope, love, and patience—will shine brightly, earning recognition from God, people, and angels alike.

Moving to public recognition, the text also suggests that a woman's deeds will stand testament at the city gates, where her husband is known. This is reminiscent of the grand day when everyone’s works will be acknowledged, echoing sentiments of public praise and divine commendation. Interestingly, some versions even suggest that the husband will receive praise as well, highlighting the collective honor of a righteous life.

Read more: John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible