Her husband is known in the gates, when he sitteth among the elders of the land.
Her husband {H1167} is known {H3045} in the gates {H8179}, when he sitteth {H3427} among the elders {H2205} of the land {H776}.
Her husband is known at the city gates when he sits with the leaders of the land.
Her husband is known at the city gate, where he sits among the elders of the land.
Her husband is known in the gates, When he sitteth among the elders of the land.
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Proverbs 12:4
¶ A virtuous woman [is] a crown to her husband: but she that maketh ashamed [is] as rottenness in his bones. -
Ruth 4:1
¶ Then went Boaz up to the gate, and sat him down there: and, behold, the kinsman of whom Boaz spake came by; unto whom he said, Ho, such a one! turn aside, sit down here. And he turned aside, and sat down. -
Deuteronomy 16:18
¶ Judges and officers shalt thou make thee in all thy gates, which the LORD thy God giveth thee, throughout thy tribes: and they shall judge the people with just judgment. -
Deuteronomy 21:19
Then shall his father and his mother lay hold on him, and bring him out unto the elders of his city, and unto the gate of his place; -
Ruth 4:11
And all the people that [were] in the gate, and the elders, said, [We are] witnesses. The LORD make the woman that is come into thine house like Rachel and like Leah, which two did build the house of Israel: and do thou worthily in Ephratah, and be famous in Bethlehem: -
Job 29:7
¶ When I went out to the gate through the city, [when] I prepared my seat in the street! -
Proverbs 24:7
¶ Wisdom [is] too high for a fool: he openeth not his mouth in the gate.
Proverbs 31:23 is a powerful testament to the far-reaching influence of the "virtuous woman" described in this chapter. It highlights how her diligence, character, and wise management of the household directly contribute to her husband's public standing and respect within the community.
Context
This verse is part of the concluding section of the Book of Proverbs, specifically the famous acrostic poem (verses 10-31) that praises the "virtuous woman" or "excellent wife". After detailing her many commendable qualities and industrious activities, this verse shifts focus to the positive impact she has on her husband's reputation and position in society, culminating in his public honor.
Historical and Cultural Context
The imagery in this verse draws heavily from ancient Israelite societal structures:
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
The Hebrew word for "known" (יָדַע - yada) implies more than just being recognized; it suggests being deeply respected, understood, and acknowledged for one's character and standing. He is not merely seen, but truly esteemed and considered worthy of his place among the leaders. The term "gates" (שַׁעַר - sha'ar) specifically refers to the public assembly area, emphasizing the public nature of his recognition.
Practical Application
Proverbs 31:23 offers timeless principles for modern relationships and community: