Proverbs 31:12

KJV

She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life.

KJV (with Strong's)

She will do {H1580} him good {H2896} and not evil {H7451} all the days {H3117} of her life {H2416}.

Complete Jewish Bible

She works to bring him good, not harm, all the days of her life.

Berean Standard Bible

She brings him good and not harm all the days of her life.

American Standard Version

She doeth him good and not evil All the days of her life.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 31:12 offers a profound insight into the character of the virtuous woman, affirming her consistent and unwavering commitment to her husband's well-being. This verse highlights her proactive pursuit of his benefit, ensuring that her actions and intentions are always constructive and never detrimental, thereby solidifying the foundation of trust and mutual prosperity within their lifelong marital covenant.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Proverbs 31:12 is embedded within the concluding section of the book of Proverbs, specifically the acrostic poem dedicated to the "excellent wife" or "virtuous woman" (Proverbs 31:10-31). This poem, presented as the wise counsel of King Lemuel's mother, follows a series of instructions on righteous living and the dangers of various vices. Verses 10 and 11 introduce her immense value, stating she is "far above rubies" and that "the heart of her husband doth safely trust in her." Verse 12 directly expands on this trust, explaining *why* her husband can trust her implicitly: because her actions consistently contribute to his good. The subsequent verses (Proverbs 31:13-27) then elaborate on the manifold ways she "does him good" through her diligence, wisdom, compassion, and foresight, culminating in her praise in Proverbs 31:28-31.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israelite society, marriage was a foundational institution, often arranged, and deeply intertwined with family honor, economic stability, and the continuation of lineage. The role of the wife, particularly within the household, was central to the family's prosperity and reputation. While male-dominated, the wisdom literature, especially Proverbs, frequently elevates the role of a wise and diligent woman (e.g., [Proverbs 14:1](/proverbs/14-1 "Proverbs 14:1 - The Wise Woman Builds Her House")). The "virtuous woman" of Proverbs 31 represents an ideal, embodying qualities that would ensure the well-being and honor of her husband and household in a patriarchal society. Her actions, whether managing the household, engaging in commerce, or caring for the poor, directly impacted her husband's standing in the community and his ability to focus on his public duties.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully reinforces several key themes prevalent throughout Proverbs and the broader wisdom literature. It underscores the theme of **wisdom in action**, demonstrating that true wisdom is not merely intellectual understanding but practical, beneficial living (see [Proverbs 8](/proverbs/8 "Proverbs 8 - Wisdom's Call")). It highlights the **value of a righteous spouse**, presenting the ideal wife as a source of blessing and stability, a stark contrast to the "contentious woman" or the "harlot" warned against elsewhere in Proverbs (e.g., [Proverbs 21:9](/proverbs/21-9 "Proverbs 21:9 - Better to Live Alone")). The verse also speaks to the theme of **covenant faithfulness**, as her lifelong commitment to "do him good" reflects the enduring nature of the marital bond, mirroring God's own faithfulness to His covenant people. Finally, it emphasizes **blessing through diligence and integrity**, showing that consistent, well-intentioned effort leads to positive outcomes for all involved.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **do (Hebrew, _gâmal'_):** This primitive root signifies "to treat a person (well or ill), i.e. benefit or requite." It implies an active, intentional engagement with another person, either for their good or harm. In this context, it is explicitly linked with "good," indicating a deliberate and consistent pattern of beneficial action. The word also carries connotations of recompense or reward, suggesting that her actions are a form of positive requital or contribution to her husband.
* **good (Hebrew, _ṭôwb'_):** Derived from a root meaning "to be good," _ṭôwb_ is a comprehensive term encompassing moral goodness, pleasantness, prosperity, and excellence. It describes that which is beneficial, favorable, and brings well-being. When applied to the wife's actions, it means she contributes to her husband's welfare in every conceivable way—his reputation, finances, emotional state, and overall flourishing. It's not merely the absence of evil, but the active presence of positive, life-affirming qualities.
* **evil (Hebrew, _raʻ'_):** This word denotes that which is bad, harmful, destructive, or morally wicked. It stands in direct antithesis to _ṭôwb_. The explicit negation "and not evil" emphasizes the deliberate and complete absence of malice, harm, or ill-will in her conduct. Her actions are not just occasionally good, but consistently devoid of anything that would cause detriment, distress, or ruin to her husband.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"She will do him good":** This clause establishes the proactive and positive nature of the virtuous woman's character. Her actions are not passive or reactive, but intentionally directed towards the benefit and well-being of her husband. "Good" here encompasses all aspects of his life—his reputation in the community, his financial prosperity, his emotional and physical comfort, and his overall flourishing. She is an active contributor to his success and happiness.
* **"and not evil":** This phrase serves as a powerful contrast and a vital qualifier. It underscores that her beneficial actions are not merely accidental or occasional, nor are they mixed with harmful intent or deeds. She actively refrains from anything that would cause detriment, distress, or harm to her husband. This implies a purity of motive and a steadfastness of character that eschews malice, sabotage, or neglect.
* **"all the days of her life":** This final phrase emphasizes the enduring and consistent nature of her commitment. Her goodness is not situational, temporary, or dependent on circumstances or mood. It is a lifelong pattern, reflecting an unwavering loyalty and dedication that persists through all seasons of life—in prosperity and adversity, in youth and old age. This speaks to the permanence of the marital covenant and her steadfast adherence to it.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several effective literary devices. **Antithesis** is prominent, with the direct contrast between "good" and "evil" highlighting the absolute nature of her beneficial character. This stark opposition emphasizes that her actions are not merely neutral but decisively positive, with no room for harm. **Hyperbole** is suggested by the phrase "all the days of her life," which, while literally true of a lifelong commitment, also conveys the idea of an unbroken, ceaseless dedication. This amplifies the depth and consistency of her character. The verse also functions as a form of **characterization**, succinctly defining a core aspect of the virtuous woman's identity through her actions and their duration. It is a declarative statement that shapes the reader's understanding of her exemplary nature, setting the stage for the detailed descriptions that follow in the poem.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Proverbs 31:12 articulates a profound principle of covenant faithfulness and self-giving love within the marital relationship, echoing broader biblical themes of interpersonal responsibility and the nature of true devotion. The consistent pursuit of another's good, coupled with the active avoidance of harm, reflects a love that is not self-seeking but genuinely seeks the flourishing of the beloved. This commitment to lifelong beneficence elevates the marital bond beyond mere convenience or passion, rooting it in a steadfast, ethical foundation that mirrors God's own enduring faithfulness to His people. It speaks to the transformative power of a relationship where one partner consistently invests in the well-being of the other, fostering trust, security, and mutual growth.

* [Ruth 3:11](/ruth/3-11 "Ruth 3:11 - Boaz's Praise for Ruth's Character")
* [1 Corinthians 13:4-7](/1_corinthians/13-4 "1 Corinthians 13:4-7 - The Qualities of Love")
* [Ephesians 5:33](/ephesians/5-33 "Ephesians 5:33 - Mutual Respect in Marriage")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 31:12 provides a powerful blueprint not just for marital relationships, but for all our interactions, urging us to be sources of consistent blessing rather than detriment. It challenges us to examine the intent and impact of our words and deeds: are we actively seeking the "good" of those around us—our spouses, family, friends, colleagues, and even strangers—or are our actions sometimes indifferent, self-serving, or even harmful? The "all the days of her life" aspect calls us to a sustained commitment, recognizing that true character is forged in consistency, not just in fleeting moments of kindness. This verse inspires us to cultivate a heart that genuinely desires the flourishing of others, making their well-being a priority and consciously avoiding anything that would cause them harm. It's a call to proactive, intentional, and lifelong love.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific ways do I actively "do good" to those closest to me, particularly my spouse or family members?**
* **Are there any areas where my actions, words, or omissions might inadvertently cause "evil" or harm to others, even if unintentionally?**
* **How can I cultivate a more consistent and lifelong commitment to seeking the welfare of others, rather than acting only when it's convenient or beneficial to myself?**
* **What does it mean to build a relationship on trust, knowing that the other person consistently seeks your good? How can I foster such trust in my own relationships?**

### FAQ
**What does "good" mean in the context of this verse?**

Answer: In Proverbs 31:12, "good" (Hebrew: _ṭôwb_) is a comprehensive term that goes beyond mere moral uprightness. It signifies that which is beneficial, pleasant, prosperous, and excellent in the widest sense. When the virtuous woman "does him good," it means she actively contributes to her husband's overall well-being, reputation, financial stability, comfort, and flourishing in every aspect of his life. It implies a positive and constructive impact that enriches his existence.

**How does "not evil" complement "do him good"?**

Answer: The phrase "and not evil" (Hebrew: _raʻ_) serves as a crucial counterpoint to "do him good." It emphasizes the complete absence of malice, harm, or ill-will in her actions. It's not enough to simply refrain from doing bad things; the virtuous woman actively pursues what is good while simultaneously avoiding anything that would be detrimental, destructive, or cause distress to her husband. This dual emphasis highlights her pure intentions and steadfast character, ensuring that her influence is entirely positive and never harmful.

**Is this verse only applicable to wives?**

Answer: While Proverbs 31:12 specifically describes the virtuous wife, the underlying principles of consistent beneficence, unwavering loyalty, and the active pursuit of another's well-being are universal and applicable to all relationships. The wisdom literature often uses specific examples to illustrate broader truths. Therefore, while the direct application is to a wife's conduct toward her husband, the verse serves as a powerful model for anyone seeking to be a source of blessing and trust in any relationship, encouraging us to "do good to all people" as taught in [Galatians 6:10](/galatians/6-10 "Galatians 6:10 - Doing Good to All").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 31:12, in its depiction of a woman who consistently "does him good and not evil all the days of her life," profoundly foreshadows the ultimate example of self-giving love found in Jesus Christ. While the Proverbs passage speaks of a human relationship, it points to a divine archetype. Christ, as the perfect Bridegroom, consistently "does good" to His Church, His bride, "all the days of her life"—indeed, for all eternity. He did not come to condemn or bring "evil," but to bring life and life more abundantly (as seen in [John 10:10](/john/10-10 "John 10:10 - The Abundant Life")). His entire ministry, culminating in His sacrificial death on the cross, was an act of ultimate good, demonstrating a love that "always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres" ([1 Corinthians 13:7](/1_corinthians/13-7 "1 Corinthians 13:7 - Love's Enduring Qualities")). Just as the virtuous wife builds up her husband, Christ continually builds up His Church, equipping her and sanctifying her, presenting her "without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless" ([Ephesians 5:27](/ephesians/5-27 "Ephesians 5:27 - Christ's Love for the Church")). His faithfulness and beneficial actions are not for a season but are eternal, securing our ultimate good and salvation, ensuring that He will "never leave us nor forsake us" ([Hebrews 13:5](/hebrews/13-5 "Hebrews 13:5 - God's Unfailing Presence")).

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

1 Samuel 25:18

¶ Then Abigail made haste, and took two hundred loaves, and two bottles of wine, and five sheep ready dressed, and five measures of parched [corn], and an hundred clusters of raisins, and two hundred cakes of figs, and laid [them] on asses.

1 Samuel 25:22

So and more also do God unto the enemies of David, if I leave of all that [pertain] to him by the morning light any that pisseth against the wall.

1 Samuel 25:26

Now therefore, my lord, [as] the LORD liveth, and [as] thy soul liveth, seeing the LORD hath withholden thee from coming to [shed] blood, and from avenging thyself with thine own hand, now let thine enemies, and they that seek evil to my lord, be as Nabal.

1 Samuel 25:27

And now this blessing which thine handmaid hath brought unto my lord, let it even be given unto the young men that follow my lord.