Proverbs 31:15

Proverbs 31:15 offers a glimpse into the industrious nature of the virtuous woman, highlighting her proactive and diligent approach to household management. This verse emphasizes her early rising and careful provision for everyone under her care, from family members to servants.

Context

This verse is part of the powerful and poetic description of the ideal wife and mother found in Proverbs 31:10-31, often referred to as the "Proverbs 31 Woman." This section is likely presented as advice from a mother to her son, King Lemuel, outlining the qualities of a truly excellent woman. In ancient Israelite society, the management of a large household required significant foresight, planning, and consistent effort. This verse portrays a woman who is not reactive but actively anticipates and meets the needs of her household, demonstrating a high degree of responsibility and care.

Key Themes

• Diligence and Industry: The phrase "She riseth also while it is yet night" powerfully conveys her exceptional work ethic and commitment. She doesn't wait for the day to begin but starts preparations before dawn, setting an example of tireless effort.
• Foresight and Planning: Her early rising is not without purpose; it's to "giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens." This indicates careful planning and preparation, ensuring that everyone has their sustenance ready for the day ahead. This proactive approach echoes the wisdom found in passages about learning diligence from the ant.
• Provision and Care: The verse highlights her role as a provider and caregiver. She ensures that both her family ("household") and her employees ("maidens") are well-fed, demonstrating her compassionate leadership and responsible stewardship.
• Stewardship: By managing resources efficiently and distributing them fairly, she exemplifies excellent stewardship of her home and its inhabitants.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV word "meat" in this context refers to food in general, not exclusively flesh. It signifies sustenance or provisions. "Portion" (Hebrew: חֹק, ḥōq) refers to an allotted share or a prescribed amount, indicating that she distributes food systematically and fairly to her servants, ensuring their needs are met.

Practical Application

Proverbs 31:15 provides timeless principles for effective living, applicable far beyond the ancient household:

• Proactive Living: While not every person needs to literally rise "while it is yet night," the principle encourages a proactive rather than reactive approach to responsibilities. It's about planning ahead, anticipating needs, and taking initiative before pressures mount.
• Diligent Work Ethic: The verse celebrates hard work and dedication. It encourages commitment to one's duties, whether in the home, workplace, or community.
• Responsible Stewardship: It calls us to be good stewards of the resources and people entrusted to our care. This includes providing for our families, managing finances wisely, and ensuring the well-being of those dependent on us. This principle extends to all who are called to provide for their own, whether family, employees, or community.
• Selfless Service: Her actions are focused on others' needs, demonstrating a selfless spirit that puts the well-being of her household first.

Ultimately, Proverbs 31:15 paints a picture of a woman characterized by discipline, generosity, and thoughtful leadership, whose diligence creates stability and provision for all under her influence.