Proverbs 31:25

Strength and honour [are] her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come.

Strength {H5797} and honour {H1926} are her clothing {H3830}; and she shall rejoice {H7832} in time {H3117} to come {H314}.

Clothed with strength and dignity, she can laugh at the days to come.

Strength and honor are her clothing, and she can laugh at the days to come.

Strength and dignity are her clothing; And she laugheth at the time to come.

Context of Proverbs 31:25

Proverbs 31:25 is part of the famous description of the "virtuous woman" or "excellent wife," found in the concluding section of the Book of Proverbs (verses 10-31). This poetic passage is an acrostic, with each verse beginning with a successive letter of the Hebrew alphabet. It presents an ideal portrait of a woman whose character, diligence, and wisdom lead to her success and the flourishing of her household. It is a culmination of the wisdom teachings within the book, offering a practical example of wisdom lived out in daily life.

Meaning and Key Themes

This verse encapsulates a profound truth about true worth and security. When it states, "Strength and honour [are] her clothing," it uses a powerful metaphor. Her outward appearance is not defined by expensive garments or fleeting beauty, but by her inner fortitude (strength) and the dignity and respect she commands (honour). This strength encompasses moral integrity, resilience, capability, and a robust character. Her honour is a result of her virtuous actions, her wisdom, and her diligent care for her family and community.

The second part, "and she shall rejoice in time to come," speaks to the profound confidence and security that result from such a life. Because she has lived wisely, worked diligently, and invested in what truly matters, she has no fear or anxiety about the future. Instead, she faces coming days with joy and a sense of peace, knowing she has prepared well and trusted in the Lord. This contrasts sharply with those who live recklessly or idly, who often face the future with dread.

  • Inner Character as True Adornment: The verse emphasizes that genuine beauty and worth come from within, from a person's character and actions, rather than external display.
  • Confidence from Diligence: Her ability to "rejoice in time to come" stems directly from her present efforts and wise living.
  • Dignity and Respect: Her strength and honour earn her esteem, not only from her family but also from society, reflecting the biblical principle that wisdom's ways lead to blessing and peace.

Linguistic Insights

  • The Hebrew word for "strength" is 'oz (עֹז), which conveys not just physical power but also fortitude, might, and moral courage. It speaks of a woman who is not weak or timid but is capable and resilient in facing life's challenges.
  • "Honour" is hadar (הָדָר), which means splendor, majesty, dignity, and respect. It suggests an inherent worth and an outward manifestation of her excellent character that inspires reverence.
  • The phrase "rejoice in time to come" (תִּשְׂחַק לְיוֹם אַחֲרוֹן - *tishaq l'yom acharon*) literally means "she laughs at the coming day" or "she laughs at the future." This vivid imagery portrays a deep sense of security and joyful anticipation, free from worry about what tomorrow may bring.

Practical Application

Proverbs 31:25 offers timeless principles for all individuals, regardless of gender. It encourages us to cultivate a strong inner character—one built on integrity, diligence, and wisdom—rather than focusing solely on outward appearances or fleeting trends. When our "clothing" is strength and honour, we build a foundation that allows us to face the future with confidence and joy. This verse reminds us that true security comes from living a life aligned with God's wisdom, which ultimately leads to lasting peace and a joyful outlook. It echoes the sentiment that "favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised."

Reflection

This verse challenges us to consider what truly defines our worth and prepares us for the future. Is our confidence placed in external circumstances or in the enduring qualities of character and faithfulness? The virtuous woman's example in Proverbs 31:25 shows that a life rooted in strength and honour, cultivated through wisdom and hard work, yields an unshakeable joy and peace regarding "time to come."

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Job 40:10

    Deck thyself now [with] majesty and excellency; and array thyself with glory and beauty.

  • Romans 13:14

    But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to [fulfil] the lusts [thereof].

  • Ephesians 4:24

    And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.

  • 1 Timothy 2:10

    But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works.

  • Job 29:14

    I put on righteousness, and it clothed me: my judgment [was] as a robe and a diadem.

  • 1 Peter 5:5

    ¶ Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all [of you] be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.

  • 1 Peter 5:6

    Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:

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