Proverbs 31:10

KJV

¶ Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price [is] far above rubies.

KJV (with Strong's)

Who can find {H4672} a virtuous {H2428} woman {H802}? for her price {H4377} is far {H7350} above rubies {H6443}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Who can find a capable wife? Her value is far beyond that of pearls.

Berean Standard Bible

A wife of noble character, who can find? She is far more precious than rubies.

American Standard Version

A worthy woman who can find? For her price is far above rubies.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 31:10 serves as the foundational opening to the renowned acrostic poem describing the "virtuous woman," often celebrated as the "Proverbs 31 Woman." This verse immediately establishes the extraordinary rarity and inestimable value of such a woman, declaring her worth to be far superior to the most precious material possessions, thereby setting the stage for the detailed portrayal of her character, diligence, and profound impact on her household and community.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Proverbs 31:10 inaugurates the final and most celebrated section of the book of Proverbs (verses 10-31). This passage is a remarkable acrostic poem in Hebrew, where each successive verse begins with a consecutive letter of the Hebrew alphabet, showcasing literary artistry and aiding memorization. Presented as the wise counsel of King Lemuel's mother to her son, this section shifts the focus from earlier warnings against immoral or foolish women to a comprehensive and inspiring celebration of an ideal wife. It outlines the qualities and conduct of a woman whose character is a source of honor, prosperity, and blessing to her husband and family, culminating the book's overarching theme of wisdom applied to daily life and relationships.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israelite society, the household was the fundamental unit of economic and social life, and the woman's role within it was pivotal. While often patriarchal, the society deeply valued a woman's contribution to the family's well-being, reputation, and prosperity. Rubies, along with other precious stones, were among the most valuable commodities of the ancient world, symbolizing immense wealth, status, and beauty. By stating that the virtuous woman's "price is far above rubies," the proverb elevates her intrinsic character and capabilities above any material wealth or external adornment, reflecting a cultural understanding that true value lay in moral integrity, diligence, and wisdom, which were essential for the flourishing of the family unit.
* **Key Themes:** This opening verse introduces several profound themes that resonate throughout the entire poem and the broader book of Proverbs. Firstly, it emphasizes the **rarity of true virtue**, encapsulated in the rhetorical question "Who can find a virtuous woman?" This highlights that such character is not commonplace but a rare and precious discovery, underscoring the challenge and blessing of finding such a partner. Secondly, it proclaims the **inestimable value of character**, asserting that a woman's inner qualities, wisdom, and diligence possess a worth that transcends all material wealth. This theme echoes the book's consistent message that wisdom is more precious than gold or rubies, as seen in [Proverbs 8:11](/proverbs/8-11 "Proverbs 8:11 - Wisdom's Value") and [Proverbs 3:15](/proverbs/3-15 "Proverbs 3:15 - Wisdom is More Precious Than Rubies"). Finally, it sets the stage for the **description of the ideal woman**, presenting a standard of excellence for womanhood rooted in strength, capability, diligence, and spiritual devotion, which is then meticulously detailed in the subsequent verses of [Proverbs 31](/proverbs/31 "Proverbs 31 - The Virtuous Woman").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **chayil (Hebrew, _chayil'_):** This word, translated "virtuous," is exceptionally rich in meaning. It derives from a root suggesting force or strength and encompasses a wide semantic range including "army," "wealth," "valor," "strength," "ability," and "excellence." When applied to a woman (ʼishshâh), as in "eshet chayil," it denotes not merely moral goodness but a woman of strength, capability, valor, and productive excellence. She is one who contributes significantly to the household's prosperity and reputation through her diligence and character, embodying a robust and active virtue.
* **meker (Hebrew, _meker'_):** Translated "price," this term refers to merchandise, value, or pay. In this context, it signifies the intrinsic worth or estimation of the virtuous woman. The use of "price" here is metaphorical, comparing her value to something that can be bought or sold, but immediately subverting that comparison by stating her worth is immeasurable in material terms. It underscores that her qualities are beyond monetary compensation.
* **pânîyn (Hebrew, _pânîyn'_):** This word, rendered "rubies" (or sometimes "pearls"), refers to highly precious gemstones in the ancient world. They were symbols of great wealth, beauty, and luxury. By stating that the virtuous woman's "price is far above rubies," the proverb employs a powerful comparative statement to highlight that her character, wisdom, and diligence possess an incomparable value that far surpasses even the most coveted material treasures.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Who can find a virtuous woman?"**: This opening rhetorical question immediately establishes the rarity and exceptional nature of the woman being described. It implies that such a woman is not easily found; she is a rare gem, highly sought after, and a true blessing to discover. The question serves to heighten the value of the qualities that follow.
* **"for her price is far above rubies."**: This clause provides the immediate answer and justification for the preceding question, emphasizing her incomparable worth. "Price" here refers to her intrinsic value, her moral and practical worth, rather than a literal market price. By stating it is "far above rubies," the verse uses a powerful hyperbole to convey that her character, wisdom, and diligence are infinitely more valuable and desirable than the most precious material possessions.

#### Literary Devices
Proverbs 31:10 masterfully employs several literary devices to convey its profound message. The verse opens with a **Rhetorical Question**, "Who can find a virtuous woman?", which is not meant to be answered literally but to emphasize the rarity and exceptional nature of such a person, immediately drawing the reader into the contemplation of her unique value. This is followed by a powerful use of **Hyperbole** and **Metaphor/Simile** in the phrase "her price is far above rubies." Rubies, being highly prized gemstones, serve as a tangible symbol of immense material wealth. By stating her worth is "far above" them, the proverb uses hyperbole to convey an immeasurable, transcendent value that cannot be quantified by earthly riches. The comparison itself functions as a metaphor, equating her intrinsic character and worth to a "price" that utterly surpasses the value of precious stones. Furthermore, this verse serves as the initial line of an **Acrostic Poem** (Proverbs 31:10-31), where each subsequent verse begins with a consecutive letter of the Hebrew alphabet, adding a layer of sophisticated literary structure and mnemonic artistry to the entire passage.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Proverbs 31:10 profoundly elevates the value of intrinsic character and spiritual virtue over external wealth or superficial beauty. Theologically, it aligns with the biblical emphasis on the heart as the wellspring of life and true righteousness, asserting that genuine worth is found not in what one possesses but in who one is. This verse sets the stage for a holistic understanding of biblical womanhood, where strength, wisdom, diligence, and fear of the Lord are celebrated as the highest virtues, contributing to the flourishing of family and community. It challenges a worldly perspective that often prioritizes material gain or fleeting appearance, redirecting focus to the enduring and immeasurable value of a righteous and capable spirit.

* [Proverbs 12:4](/proverbs/12-4 "Proverbs 12:4 - A Virtuous Wife is a Crown")
* [Proverbs 3:15](/proverbs/3-15 "Proverbs 3:15 - Wisdom More Precious Than Rubies")
* [Proverbs 20:15](/proverbs/20-15 "Proverbs 20:15 - Gold and Rubies, But Lips of Knowledge More Precious")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 31:10 calls us to a profound re-evaluation of what we truly value in ourselves and in others. For individuals, it encourages the cultivation of inner character, diligence, and wisdom above all else, recognizing that these qualities yield lasting fruit and honor. For women, it presents an inspiring and empowering vision of strength, capability, and moral excellence that extends far beyond traditional domestic roles, encompassing business acumen, compassion, and spiritual depth. For men, it provides a timeless standard for seeking a life partner, urging discernment to look beyond superficial attractions to identify a woman whose character will be a lasting source of strength, honor, and blessing to the home and community. Ultimately, this verse reminds us that true riches are not found in material possessions but in the invaluable qualities of a person's heart and spirit, reflecting God's own valuation of righteousness and wisdom.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What qualities do I prioritize in myself and in others, and how do they align with the "virtuous" character described here?**
* **In what ways can I cultivate a "price far above rubies" in my own life, focusing on intrinsic character rather than external achievements or possessions?**
* **How does this verse challenge societal norms or personal biases regarding the value and role of women?**

### FAQ

**What does "virtuous woman" (eshet chayil) truly mean in this context?**

Answer: The Hebrew phrase `eshet chayil` (אֵשֶׁת־חַיִל) is much richer than a simple translation of "virtuous woman" might suggest. The word `chayil` (H2428) carries meanings of strength, capability, valor, excellence, and even wealth or substance. Therefore, an `eshet chayil` is not merely a morally good woman, but one who is strong, capable, diligent, and effective in all her endeavors. She is a woman of substance and valor, whose character and actions bring honor and prosperity to her household and community. Her virtue is active and productive, not passive. This concept is further elaborated throughout [Proverbs 31:11-31](/proverbs/31-11 "Proverbs 31:11-31 - Description of the Virtuous Woman").

**Why are rubies specifically mentioned as the standard of comparison?**

Answer: Rubies (H6443, `pânîyn`) were among the most precious and highly valued gemstones in the ancient world, symbolizing immense wealth, luxury, and beauty. By comparing the virtuous woman's worth to rubies and stating her "price is far above" them, the proverb employs a powerful form of **hyperbole** to emphasize her inestimable value. It's a vivid way of saying that her character, wisdom, and diligence are not just valuable, but transcend any material wealth. This aligns with other proverbs that elevate wisdom above all earthly treasures, such as [Proverbs 8:11](/proverbs/8-11 "Proverbs 8:11 - Wisdom More Precious Than Rubies").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 31:10, in its quest for the "virtuous woman" whose value surpasses rubies, ultimately points us to the incomparable worth found in Christ. While the proverb describes an ideal human character, it foreshadows the ultimate embodiment of wisdom, strength, and immeasurable value in Jesus Christ. He is the one "who can find" us, the lost and broken, and redeem us, making us "virtuous" through His righteousness, a price far above any earthly treasure or sacrifice we could offer. Just as the `eshet chayil` brings blessing and prosperity to her household, Christ, as the head of His church, His bride, lavishes upon her spiritual riches and eternal life, making her glorious and without blemish ([Ephesians 5:25-27](/ephesians/5-25 "Ephesians 5:25-27 - Christ Loves the Church")). His wisdom, described as more precious than rubies in [Proverbs 8](/proverbs/8 "Proverbs 8 - Wisdom's Call"), is fully revealed in Him, for in Christ "are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge" ([Colossians 2:3](/colossians/2-3 "Colossians 2:3 - Treasures of Wisdom in Christ")). Thus, the search for ultimate value and the embodiment of perfect virtue culminates in beholding Christ, who is truly "far above rubies" in His glory, grace, and redemptive power ([Philippians 2:9-11](/philippians/2-9 "Philippians 2:9-11 - Christ's Exaltation")).

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 19:14

¶ House and riches [are] the inheritance of fathers: and a prudent wife [is] from the LORD.

Proverbs 12:4

¶ A virtuous woman [is] a crown to her husband: but she that maketh ashamed [is] as rottenness in his bones.

Proverbs 18:22

¶ [Whoso] findeth a wife findeth a good [thing], and obtaineth favour of the LORD.

Ephesians 5:25

Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;

Ephesians 5:33

Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife [see] that she reverence [her] husband.

Proverbs 3:15

She [is] more precious than rubies: and all the things thou canst desire are not to be compared unto her.

Song Of Solomon 6:8

There are threescore queens, and fourscore concubines, and virgins without number.