Proverbs 31:16

KJV

She considereth a field, and buyeth it: with the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard.

KJV (with Strong's)

She considereth {H2161} a field {H7704}, and buyeth {H3947} it: with the fruit {H6529} of her hands {H3709} she planteth {H5193} a vineyard {H3754}.

Complete Jewish Bible

She considers a field, then buys it, and from her earnings she plants a vineyard.

Berean Standard Bible

She appraises a field and buys it; from her earnings she plants a vineyard.

American Standard Version

She considereth a field, and buyeth it; With the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 31:16 masterfully portrays the Proverbs 31 woman as a proactive and astute manager of resources, extending her influence beyond the domestic sphere into strategic economic ventures. This verse highlights her discerning foresight in identifying valuable opportunities, her decisive action in acquiring property, and her diligent labor in cultivating it for future prosperity. It underscores a holistic vision of wisdom that encompasses not only internal character and household management but also external engagement in productive and profitable enterprise, demonstrating her significant contribution to the financial well-being and long-term security of her family.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Proverbs 31:16 is an integral part of an acrostic poem (Proverbs 31:10-31), where each verse begins with a successive letter of the Hebrew alphabet. This literary structure emphasizes the comprehensive and exemplary nature of the "excellent wife" or "virtuous woman" being described. The preceding verses establish her trustworthiness, diligence, and commitment to her household's welfare, noting how she works "with willing hands" [Proverbs 31:13](/proverbs/31-13 "Proverbs 31:13 - Willing Hands") and provides for her family. Following verse 16, the poem continues to elaborate on her strength, honor, compassion for the poor, and her wise instruction, culminating in the declaration that "her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her" [Proverbs 31:28](/proverbs/31-28 "Proverbs 31:28 - Her Children Rise Up"). Verse 16 specifically shifts the focus from internal household management to external financial acumen and agricultural investment, demonstrating the breadth of her capabilities.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, land was the primary source of wealth and security. Ownership of land was deeply tied to family inheritance and identity, as seen in narratives like Naboth's vineyard [1_kings/21](/1_kings/21 "1 Kings 21 - Naboth's Vineyard"). While women typically managed the household, this passage reveals that a woman of exceptional character could also engage in significant economic activities, including property acquisition and agricultural development. The act of "buying a field" and "planting a vineyard" would have been a substantial investment, requiring capital, foresight, and the ability to oversee labor. This portrayal challenges modern assumptions about gender roles in ancient societies, presenting a woman who is not confined to domesticity but actively contributes to the family's economic prosperity and social standing, reflecting the high value placed on industry and resourcefulness.

* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Proverbs and the broader wisdom literature. It exemplifies **diligent stewardship** and **wise financial management**, showing that true wisdom applies to practical economic decisions, not just moral ones. Her actions embody **foresight and long-term planning**, as planting a vineyard is an investment that yields returns only after several years, emphasizing patience and a future-oriented mindset. The "fruit of her hands" highlights the theme of **productive labor** and the direct correlation between effort and reward, echoing principles found elsewhere in Proverbs that commend hard work over idleness [Proverbs 6:6-11](/proverbs/6-6 "Proverbs 6:6-11 - Go to the Ant, You Sluggard"). Furthermore, her entrepreneurial spirit underscores the theme of **resourcefulness and initiative**, demonstrating that wisdom involves actively seeking out and seizing opportunities to enhance the well-being of one's household and community.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **considereth (Hebrew, _zâmam'_):** From H2161, meaning "to plan, usually in a bad sense; consider, devise, imagine, plot, purpose, think (evil)." While _zâmam_ often carries a negative connotation of plotting evil, its use here is a striking example of semantic range. In this context, it signifies a deep, deliberate, and strategic mental process. The woman doesn't merely glance at a field; she "plots" or "devises" a plan for it, implying careful research, evaluation of its potential, and strategic foresight. This is not impulsive action but calculated decision-making.
* **buyeth (Hebrew, _lâqach'_):** From H3947, meaning "to take (in the widest variety of applications); accept, bring, buy, carry away, drawn, fetch, get, infold, [idiom] many, mingle, place, receive(-ing), reserve, seize, send for, take (away, -ing, up), use, win." This word emphasizes the active, decisive acquisition. She doesn't just consider; she completes the transaction. The breadth of _lâqach_ suggests a comprehensive act of taking possession, implying a legal and binding purchase that transfers ownership and responsibility.
* **fruit (Hebrew, _pᵉrîy'_):** From H6529, meaning "fruit (literally or figuratively); bough, (first-)fruit(-ful), reward."
* **hands (Hebrew, _kaph'_):** From H3709, meaning "the hollow hand or palm (so of the paw of an animal, of the sole, and even of the bowl of a dish or sling, the handle of a bolt, the leaves of a palm-tree); figuratively, power." The phrase "fruit of her hands" (_pᵉrîy kaph_) powerfully conveys that the vineyard is planted through her direct, physical labor and the tangible outcome of her effort and skill. It emphasizes that her wealth is not inherited or passively acquired but generated through her own diligent work and the "power" (figurative meaning of _kaph_) she exerts.
* **planteth (Hebrew, _nâṭaʻ'_):** From H5193, meaning "properly, to strike in, i.e. fix; specifically, to plant (literally or figuratively); fastened, plant(-er)." This word highlights the active, physical labor involved in establishing the vineyard. It implies a long-term commitment and the intentional act of putting something in the ground with the expectation of future growth and yield. It's an act of investing labor and hope into the future.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"She considereth a field, and buyeth it":** This clause reveals the woman's intellectual and financial acumen. "Considereth" (H2161, _zâmam_) implies a thorough, strategic evaluation of the field's potential, its value, and the feasibility of its acquisition. It's a calculated decision, not an impulsive one. The subsequent action, "buyeth it" (H3947, _lâqach_), demonstrates her decisive execution of this well-thought-out plan, indicating access to resources and the authority to make significant financial transactions.
* **"with the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard":** This second clause emphasizes her diligence, practical skill, and long-term vision. "With the fruit of her hands" (H6529, _pᵉrîy_ and H3709, _kaph_) signifies that the vineyard is cultivated through her direct, personal labor and the tangible results of her effort. She doesn't merely delegate; she actively participates in the demanding work of "plant[ing] a vineyard" (H5193, _nâṭaʻ_ and H3754, _kerem_), an investment that requires patience, sustained effort, and promises future abundance.

#### Literary Devices
Proverbs 31:16 employs several literary devices to paint a vivid picture of the virtuous woman. **Metonymy** is present in "the fruit of her hands," where "fruit" stands for the produce or outcome of her labor, directly linking her physical effort to the resulting prosperity. This phrase also functions as a form of **Synecdoche**, where "hands" represents her entire being and the diligent work she performs. The verse itself is a concise **Narrative Description** that encapsulates a significant entrepreneurial endeavor, moving from contemplation to acquisition to cultivation. The actions described are highly **Symbolic**, representing not just literal land purchase and planting, but also the woman's foresight, industry, and capacity to generate wealth and security for her household. It is a powerful **Exemplum**, providing a concrete example of wise and productive living.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Proverbs 31:16 beautifully illustrates the biblical principle that wisdom is not merely theoretical knowledge but practical, active engagement with the world to steward God's resources for the flourishing of family and community. This woman's actions reflect a deep understanding of creation's potential and her role in cultivating it, echoing the Genesis mandate to "fill the earth and subdue it" [Genesis 1:28](/genesis/1-28 "Genesis 1:28 - The Cultural Mandate"). Her diligence and long-term investment in a vineyard also parallel the spiritual principle of sowing and reaping, where faithful effort yields a harvest, both literally and metaphorically. Theologically, her entrepreneurial spirit and active contribution to her family's well-being align with the broader biblical emphasis on responsible stewardship of talents and resources, recognizing that all we possess ultimately belongs to God.

* [Proverbs 10:4](/proverbs/10-4 "Proverbs 10:4 - Diligence vs. Laziness")
* [Matthew 25:14-30](/matthew/25-14 "Matthew 25:14-30 - The Parable of the Talents")
* [Colossians 3:23](/colossians/3-23 "Colossians 3:23 - Work Heartily for the Lord")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 31:16 challenges believers to cultivate a holistic understanding of wisdom that extends beyond personal piety to encompass diligent stewardship, strategic planning, and productive labor in all areas of life. This verse encourages us to be discerning in our decisions, proactive in seeking opportunities, and committed to long-term investments—whether in financial assets, personal development, or kingdom work. It reminds us that our "hands" are given for purposeful activity, and the "fruit" of our labor, when offered to God, can bring immense blessing to our families, communities, and the world. Rather than passively waiting for provision, we are called to actively engage our God-given talents and resources to create value, foster growth, and contribute to the flourishing of those around us, reflecting God's own creative and productive nature.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life are you called to "consider" more deeply before acting, and what steps can you take to gather the necessary information for wise decisions?**
* **How does the concept of "planting a vineyard" apply to your long-term goals and investments, both financially and relationally?**
* **What does "the fruit of your hands" look like in your current work or responsibilities, and how can you ensure your labor is both diligent and purposeful?**
* **How can you cultivate a more entrepreneurial and resourceful spirit in your daily life, seeking opportunities to create value and contribute to the well-being of others?**

### FAQ
**Does Proverbs 31:16 imply that all women should engage in real estate or agricultural business?**

Answer: While Proverbs 31:16 describes the virtuous woman engaging in real estate and agricultural business, it is not a prescriptive command for all women to enter these specific fields. Instead, it illustrates a principle of **wise stewardship, entrepreneurial spirit, and diligent labor** that is applicable to all believers, regardless of gender or specific vocation. The verse highlights her foresight, financial acumen, and willingness to invest her time and effort in productive ventures that benefit her household. The core message is about maximizing one's potential and resources for the good of the family and community, whether that takes the form of managing a household, pursuing a career, engaging in ministry, or investing wisely. The specific activities are examples of how her wisdom manifests in her context, not a universal job description. The broader context of [Proverbs 31:10-31](/proverbs/31-10 "Proverbs 31:10-31 - The Virtuous Woman") showcases a woman of diverse talents and responsibilities, all contributing to the flourishing of her family and community.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 31:16, with its depiction of diligent labor and wise investment, finds its ultimate fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. While the Proverbs 31 woman wisely invests in an earthly field and vineyard, Christ is the ultimate "planter" of the heavenly kingdom. He "considered" the lost state of humanity, not with a view to personal gain, but with divine foresight and sacrificial love, ultimately "buying" us back from the slavery of sin with the precious "fruit of His hands"—His very life poured out on the cross [1_peter/1-18](/1_peter/1-18 "1 Peter 1:18 - Redeemed by Precious Blood"). Just as the woman plants a vineyard for future sustenance, Jesus, the true vine [John 15:1](/john/15-1 "John 15:1 - Jesus, the True Vine"), planted the seeds of the gospel, establishing His church as a vineyard that produces fruit for eternity [Matthew 21:33-46](/matthew/21-33 "Matthew 21:33-46 - Parable of the Wicked Tenants"). His labor was not for earthly profit but for eternal redemption and the flourishing of His people. We, as His followers, are called to emulate this diligent, sacrificial, and fruitful work, investing our lives in His kingdom, knowing that the "fruit of our hands" in service to Him will yield an eternal harvest [Galatians 6:9](/galatians/6-9 "Galatians 6:9 - Reaping a Harvest").

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

Matthew 13:44

¶ Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field; the which when a man hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field.

Song Of Solomon 8:12

My vineyard, which [is] mine, [is] before me: thou, O Solomon, [must have] a thousand, and those that keep the fruit thereof two hundred.

Joshua 15:18

And it came to pass, as she came [unto him], that she moved him to ask of her father a field: and she lighted off [her] ass; and Caleb said unto her, What wouldest thou?