Proverbs 31:1

KJV

¶ The words of king Lemuel, the prophecy that his mother taught him.

KJV (with Strong's)

The words {H1697} of king {H4428} Lemuel {H3927}, the prophecy {H4853} that his mother {H517} taught {H3256} him.

Complete Jewish Bible

The words of King L'mu'el, the prophecy with which his mother disciplined him:

Berean Standard Bible

These are the words of King Lemuel—the burden that his mother taught him:

American Standard Version

The words of king Lemuel; the oracle which his mother taught him.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 31:1 introduces a unique and significant section of the book, presenting the "words of King Lemuel" as a profound and authoritative "prophecy" or oracle. This verse uniquely attributes the origin of this royal wisdom to his mother, underscoring the deep and formative influence of maternal instruction in shaping a leader's character and reign, setting the stage for the weighty counsel that follows regarding righteous governance and the nature of a virtuous woman.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Proverbs 31:1 marks a distinct shift in the book of Proverbs. Unlike the preceding chapters, which are largely attributed to Solomon or "the wise," this verse introduces a new authorial voice: King Lemuel. This opening signals a departure from the general Solomonic collections, indicating a unique and perhaps more specific body of wisdom. The subsequent verses (Proverbs 31:2-9) contain direct counsel from Lemuel's mother to him, focusing on the responsibilities and pitfalls of kingship, particularly concerning justice, alcohol, and the vulnerable. This then transitions into the famous acrostic poem describing the "excellent wife" in [Proverbs 31:10-31](/proverbs/31-10 "Proverbs 31:10-31 - The Virtuous Woman"), creating a comprehensive picture of wisdom applied to both public and private life, all under the initial framing of a mother's instruction to her son.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Near Eastern societies, including Israel, the role of the queen mother (or "gebirah") was often significant, sometimes wielding considerable influence and authority, especially in the upbringing and moral formation of future kings. While King Lemuel's identity remains debated—some scholars suggest he might be a symbolic figure, a foreign king, or even an alternative name for Solomon—the emphasis on his mother's teaching highlights the high regard for maternal wisdom and the family as the primary locus of moral education. Kings were expected to rule justly and wisely, and instruction from a young age, particularly from a respected female figure, was seen as crucial for instilling the ethical foundations necessary for righteous governance, echoing the general call for children to heed parental instruction found in [Proverbs 1:8](/proverbs/1-8 "Proverbs 1:8 - Heed Parental Instruction").
* **Key Themes:** This introductory verse immediately establishes several key themes that resonate throughout Proverbs 31 and the broader wisdom tradition. Firstly, it underscores the profound **Maternal Influence** in shaping character and conduct, particularly for those in positions of leadership. The mother's role is not merely advisory but authoritative, imparting what is termed a "prophecy." Secondly, the use of "prophecy" (Hebrew: *massa'*) points to the **Divine Authority of Counsel**, suggesting that these are not mere human opinions but weighty, divinely inspired messages or oracles, elevating the significance of the mother's teachings to a sacred level. Finally, the very nature of the advice given to a king implies the theme of **Preparation for Leadership**, emphasizing that true governance requires a foundation of moral integrity, justice, and wisdom, often instilled from a young age, a principle echoed in passages like [Proverbs 16:12](/proverbs/16-12 "Proverbs 16:12 - Righteous Rule").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **words (Hebrew, _dâbâr'_):** This term is far more expansive than a simple utterance. From its root, it implies a matter, a thing, an affair, or even a decree. In this context, it signifies not just spoken sounds but a weighty, substantial message, a body of instruction, or a collection of authoritative statements. It denotes the content of the teaching, emphasizing its significance and comprehensive nature.
* **King (Hebrew, _melek'_):** This word denotes a monarch, a ruler, or one who holds royal authority. Its presence here immediately frames the subsequent wisdom as specifically intended for someone in a position of power and leadership, highlighting the unique responsibilities and temptations associated with kingship. The advice that follows is therefore tailored to the ethical and practical demands of ruling justly.
* **Lemuel (Hebrew, _Lᵉmûwʼêl'_):** Meaning "(belonging) to God" or "devoted to God," this name itself carries theological weight. Whether a literal king or a symbolic figure (perhaps even Solomon, given his dedication of the Temple to God), the name suggests a ruler whose life and reign are meant to be consecrated to divine principles. This symbolic meaning reinforces the idea that true kingship, and indeed all leadership, should be grounded in a relationship with and devotion to God.
* **prophecy (Hebrew, _massâʼ'_):** While often translated as "prophecy," *massâʼ* literally means "burden" or "load." In a prophetic context, it refers to a weighty utterance, an oracle, or a divinely inspired pronouncement, often carrying a sense of solemnity, divine origin, and sometimes a foreboding or challenging message. Here, it elevates the mother's instruction beyond mere advice to a divinely authoritative and significant message, a "burden" of truth she felt compelled to impart.
* **taught (Hebrew, _yâçar'_):** This verb signifies to chastise, correct, instruct, or discipline. It implies a process of firm, formative education, often involving correction and training to shape character and behavior. The mother didn't just casually advise; she "taught" or disciplined Lemuel, indicating a deliberate, perhaps even rigorous, process of moral and ethical formation essential for a future king.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"The words of king Lemuel,"**: This opening clause immediately identifies the speaker or source of the wisdom that follows. By attributing the words to "King Lemuel," the text signals a specific and authoritative origin, distinct from the Solomonic proverbs that dominate much of the book. The mention of "king" suggests that the subsequent counsel is particularly relevant to those in positions of power and leadership.
* **"the prophecy"**: This phrase clarifies the nature of the "words." It's not just casual advice but a *massâʼ*, a weighty, authoritative utterance. This term elevates the instruction to a level of divine significance, implying that the wisdom conveyed is not merely human opinion but carries the solemnity and importance of a divine oracle or a profound, divinely inspired message.
* **"that his mother taught him."**: This concluding clause reveals the immediate human source of this profound wisdom. The emphasis on "his mother" highlights the crucial role of maternal instruction in the formation of a leader. The verb "taught" (yâçar) implies a process of firm discipline, correction, and moral shaping, underscoring the depth and intentionality of her educational efforts in preparing her son for his royal responsibilities.

#### Literary Devices
Proverbs 31:1 employs several key literary devices. The primary device is **Attribution**, clearly naming "King Lemuel" as the recipient and his "mother" as the source of the "words." This specific attribution lends authority and a personal touch to the ensuing wisdom, distinguishing it from the more generalized Solomonic proverbs. The term "prophecy" (Hebrew *massa'*) functions as **Metonymy** or **Synecdoche**, where a "burden" (its literal meaning) stands for a weighty, authoritative utterance or oracle, often with divine implications. This elevates the mother's counsel beyond mere advice to a divinely inspired message. Furthermore, the verse sets up a **Didactic Framework**, presenting the following content as direct instruction aimed at shaping the character and conduct of a king, emphasizing the formative power of wisdom passed down through generations. The very name "Lemuel" (belonging to God) can also be seen as **Symbolism**, perhaps representing an ideal king who is devoted to divine principles, or even symbolically pointing to Solomon himself, whose life was meant to be consecrated to God.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Proverbs 31:1 offers profound theological insights, particularly concerning the nature of wisdom, its transmission, and its application in leadership. It underscores that true wisdom is not merely intellectual prowess but a moral and spiritual formation, often imparted within the sacred context of the family. The mother's role as a source of "prophecy" highlights that divine truth can be conveyed through unexpected vessels, and that God uses various means, including parental instruction, to shape His people, especially those called to lead. This verse affirms the divine origin of true wisdom and its practical necessity for righteous governance, connecting the private sphere of family education to the public sphere of national leadership. It implicitly teaches that a nation's well-being is deeply tied to the moral character of its leaders, which is often cultivated from a young age through godly instruction.

* [Proverbs 1:8](/proverbs/1-8 "Proverbs 1:8 - Heed Parental Instruction")
* [Deuteronomy 6:6-7](/deuteronomy/6-6 "Deuteronomy 6:6-7 - Teach Your Children Diligently")
* [2 Timothy 3:14-15](/2_timothy/3-14 "2 Timothy 3:14-15 - Timothy's Instruction from Childhood")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 31:1 serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring value of intergenerational wisdom and the profound responsibility parents bear in shaping the moral and spiritual foundation of their children. For parents, it is a call to intentionality in teaching, disciplining, and imparting godly principles, recognizing that their words carry immense weight and can have a prophetic impact on future generations. For children, regardless of age, it encourages a posture of humility and receptiveness to wise counsel, especially from those who have walked before them and possess life experience and spiritual insight. This verse also speaks to leaders, reminding them that true authority and effective governance are rooted not merely in power or position, but in a deep moral character often forged through early, formative instruction. It challenges all believers to consider the sources of their wisdom and to seek out and internalize truth that aligns with divine principles, understanding that such wisdom is a "burden" or a sacred trust to be cherished and applied.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What is the "prophecy" or weighty truth that has been passed down to you, and from whom did it come?**
* **How does the emphasis on a mother's teaching in this verse challenge or affirm your understanding of the role of family in spiritual formation?**
* **In what ways do you actively seek out and receive wise counsel, recognizing its potential "prophetic" significance for your life and leadership?**
* **If you are a parent or mentor, what "words" or "prophecies" are you intentionally teaching those under your care?**

### FAQ
**Who was King Lemuel?**

Answer: The identity of King Lemuel is a subject of scholarly debate. He is not mentioned elsewhere in the biblical text, leading to various theories. Some suggest he was a non-Israelite king whose wisdom was included in the Hebrew canon, reflecting the universal appeal of wisdom literature. Others propose he was a symbolic figure, representing an ideal king devoted to God (as his name "Lemuel" suggests, meaning "belonging to God"). A long-standing tradition, dating back to the Talmud, identifies Lemuel as a symbolic name for King Solomon, perhaps referring to his later life when he received instruction, or emphasizing his devotion to God. Regardless of his precise identity, the significance lies in the content of the wisdom and its source, rather than the specific historical figure. The passage serves as a timeless guide for righteous leadership, applicable to any ruler or individual in authority, much like the general wisdom found throughout the book of [Proverbs](/proverbs "The Book of Proverbs").

**What does "prophecy" mean in this context?**

Answer: The Hebrew word translated "prophecy" is *massâʼ* (מַשָּׂא). While it can mean a predictive prophecy, its primary sense is "burden" or "load." In a prophetic context, it refers to a weighty utterance, an oracle, or a divinely inspired pronouncement that carries significant importance and authority. Here, it suggests that the mother's words to Lemuel are not merely personal advice but a solemn, authoritative message, perhaps divinely inspired, that she felt compelled to deliver. It elevates her instruction to a level of profound significance, indicating that these are truths of ultimate importance for a king's life and reign, akin to the solemn pronouncements found in prophetic books like [Isaiah 13:1](/isaiah/13-1 "Isaiah 13:1 - The Burden of Babylon").

**Why is King Lemuel's mother emphasized as the source of this wisdom?**

Answer: The emphasis on Lemuel's mother as the source of this wisdom highlights the critical and respected role of maternal instruction in ancient Israelite society, and indeed, in all cultures. In the wisdom tradition, parents, especially mothers, were seen as primary educators in moral and spiritual matters (e.g., [Proverbs 1:8](/proverbs/1-8 "Proverbs 1:8 - Heed Parental Instruction")). For a king, whose decisions impacted an entire nation, the moral foundation laid in childhood was paramount. This emphasis underscores that true leadership is often cultivated through early, formative guidance within the family, and that wisdom can flow from unexpected or often overlooked sources, such as a mother's heartfelt counsel. It also elevates the status of women as vital conveyors of divine truth and moral authority.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 31:1, with its depiction of a king receiving weighty, divinely-inspired instruction from his mother, finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. He is the true King, the "King of kings and Lord of lords" ([Revelation 19:16](/revelation/19-16 "Revelation 19:16 - King of Kings")), who perfectly embodies the wisdom and righteous rule that Lemuel's mother sought to instill. Unlike Lemuel, whose identity is debated, Jesus is the definitive "Son of David" ([Matthew 1:1](/matthew/1-1 "Matthew 1:1 - Genealogy of Jesus")), the promised Messiah who reigns with perfect justice and integrity. The "prophecy" taught to Lemuel foreshadows the divine wisdom that resided in Christ from eternity, for He is the very "wisdom of God" ([1 Corinthians 1:24](/1_corinthians/1-24 "1 Corinthians 1:24 - Christ the Wisdom of God")). Furthermore, just as Lemuel's mother taught him, so too did Jesus receive instruction and grow in wisdom and stature ([Luke 2:52](/luke/2-52 "Luke 2:52 - Jesus' Growth in Wisdom")) within the context of a godly upbringing, though His ultimate wisdom was inherent. He is the King who perfectly applies divine truth, not just for a single nation, but for all who believe, establishing an eternal kingdom of righteousness and peace ([Isaiah 9:6-7](/isaiah/9-6 "Isaiah 9:6-7 - The Prince of Peace")). His life and teachings are the ultimate "prophecy" for humanity, guiding us into all truth and demonstrating the perfect application of divine wisdom in both leadership and daily living.

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.

Cross-References

Proverbs 6:20

¶ My son, keep thy father's commandment, and forsake not the law of thy mother:

2 Timothy 1:5

When I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice; and I am persuaded that in thee also.

Proverbs 1:8

My son, hear the instruction of thy father, and forsake not the law of thy mother:

2 Timothy 3:15

And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.

Proverbs 30:1

¶ The words of Agur the son of Jakeh, [even] the prophecy: the man spake unto Ithiel, even unto Ithiel and Ucal,