TRV
Proverbs 31:13
Bible Versions
She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands.
She procures a supply of wool and flax and works with willing hands.
She selects wool and flax and works with eager hands.
She seeketh wool and flax, And worketh willingly with her hands.
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Titus 2:5
[To be] discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed. -
1 Timothy 5:10
Well reported of for good works; if she have brought up children, if she have lodged strangers, if she have washed the saints' feet, if she have relieved the afflicted, if she have diligently followed every good work. -
2 Thessalonians 3:10
For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat. -
2 Thessalonians 3:12
Now them that are such we command and exhort by our Lord Jesus Christ, that with quietness they work, and eat their own bread. -
Acts 9:39
Then Peter arose and went with them. When he was come, they brought him into the upper chamber: and all the widows stood by him weeping, and shewing the coats and garments which Dorcas made, while she was with them. -
Acts 9:40
But Peter put them all forth, and kneeled down, and prayed; and turning [him] to the body said, Tabitha, arise. And she opened her eyes: and when she saw Peter, she sat up. -
Genesis 24:13
Behold, I stand [here] by the well of water; and the daughters of the men of the city come out to draw water:
Proverbs 31:13 introduces one of the fundamental characteristics of the virtuous woman described in this celebrated chapter: her proactive and willing approach to work. This verse highlights her industrious nature and her direct involvement in providing for her household.
Context
This verse is part of an acrostic poem (each verse beginning with a successive letter of the Hebrew alphabet) found in Proverbs 31:10-31, which describes the "virtuous woman" or "woman of valor." This section is presented as the words of King Lemuel's mother, instructing him on the qualities of an ideal wife and homemaker. Far from being idle, the woman portrayed here is a powerhouse of diligence and management, serving as a model of wisdom in action. Verse 13 specifically focuses on her engagement with raw materials for textile production, a vital aspect of ancient household economy.
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
The Hebrew word for "willingly" is chephets (חֵפֶץ), which implies pleasure, delight, or desire. It suggests that her work is not done out of compulsion but out of a genuine desire and satisfaction in her efforts. This deepens the meaning beyond mere compliance, highlighting a joyful and proactive spirit. "Seeketh" (darash, דָּרַשׁ) implies an active, diligent search, not just a casual glance. She actively pursues the means to be productive.
Related Scriptures
This verse sets the stage for many of the woman's later actions, such as rising early to provide food for her household (Proverbs 31:15) and ensuring her family is well-clothed (Proverbs 31:21). Her proactive work ethic aligns with the broader biblical principle that the hand of the diligent brings wealth (Proverbs 10:4) and stands in contrast to the slothful. The concept of working with a willing heart also echoes the New Testament's call to work "heartily, as to the Lord" (Colossians 3:23).
Practical Application
For a modern audience, Proverbs 31:13 extends beyond literal spinning and weaving. It serves as a powerful reminder of the value of diligence, initiative, and a positive attitude in all areas of life, whether in professional work, managing a home, or serving in a community. It encourages individuals to be proactive in identifying needs and to apply themselves wholeheartedly to meeting them, finding satisfaction and purpose in productive labor. The "virtuous woman" is not afraid of hard work; rather, she embraces it willingly, embodying a spirit of resourceful contribution to her family and beyond.