What does "stretcheth out her hand" imply about the virtuous woman's compassion?

The phrase "stretcheth out her hand" (and "reacheth forth her hands") implies a proactive, intentional, and physical act of giving and assistance. It signifies that her compassion is not merely a feeling of sympathy but translates into concrete action. She doesn't wait for the poor or needy to come to her; rather, she actively extends herself, her resources, and her help towards them. This suggests a generous spirit, open-handedness, and a willingness to engage directly with the needs of others, embodying the practical righteousness that God desires from His people, as seen in passages like Deuteronomy 15:7-8.

31:19 31:19

Proverbs 31:20

31:21 31:21

Bible Versions

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

She stretcheth out {H6566} her hand {H3709} to the poor {H6041}; yea, she reacheth forth {H7971} her hands {H3027} to the needy {H34}.

She reaches out to embrace the poor and opens her arms to the needy.

She opens her arms to the poor and reaches out her hands to the needy.

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

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Verse Lookup

Cross-References

Ephesians 4:28

Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with [his] hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth.
Hebrews 13:16

But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.
Proverbs 19:17

¶ He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the LORD; and that which he hath given will he pay him again.
Proverbs 22:9

¶ He that hath a bountiful eye shall be blessed; for he giveth of his bread to the poor.
Psalms 41:1

¶ To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David. Blessed [is] he that considereth the poor: the LORD will deliver him in time of trouble.
Acts 20:34

Yea, ye yourselves know, that these hands have ministered unto my necessities, and to them that were with me.
Acts 20:35

I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.

Bible Versions

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