She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness.
She looketh well {H6822} to the ways {H1979}{H1979} of her household {H1004}, and eateth {H398} not the bread {H3899} of idleness {H6104}.
She watches how things go in her house, not eating the bread of idleness.
She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.
She looketh well to the ways of her household, And eateth not the bread of idleness.
-
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. -
Titus 2:4
That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, -
Proverbs 14:1
¶ Every wise woman buildeth her house: but the foolish plucketh it down with her hands. -
2 Thessalonians 3:6
¶ Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother that walketh disorderly, and not after the tradition which he received of us. -
1 Thessalonians 4:11
And that ye study to be quiet, and to do your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you;
Commentary on Proverbs 31:27 (KJV)
Proverbs 31:27, "She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness," offers a profound insight into the character and diligent nature of the virtuous woman, often referred to as the "excellent wife" or "virtuous woman" described in Proverbs 31:10-31. This verse highlights her active engagement and responsible management within her sphere of influence.
Historical and Cultural Context
This verse is part of an acrostic poem (each verse begins with a successive letter of the Hebrew alphabet) praising an ideal woman in ancient Israelite society. In that culture, the household was the primary economic and social unit. A woman's role in managing the home, raising children, and often contributing to the family's livelihood (through weaving, trading, or land management, as seen in other verses of this chapter) was central to its prosperity and well-being. Her diligence directly impacted the family's survival and reputation.
Key Themes and Messages
Linguistic Insights
The Hebrew verb for "looketh well" is tzaphah (צָפָה), which means "to keep watch, to observe, to spy out." It suggests a vigilant, protective oversight, much like a watchman guarding a city wall. This is not a casual glance but a deliberate and attentive management. The "bread of idleness" uses the Hebrew word `atslut (עַצְלוּת) for "idleness" or "slothfulness," clearly emphasizing the moral and practical bankruptcy of a lazy lifestyle.
Related Scriptures
This verse beautifully complements other biblical teachings on diligence and hard work. The call to active management and avoiding slothfulness is a recurring theme in the wisdom literature. For instance, the book of Proverbs frequently contrasts the diligent with the sluggard, as seen in the admonition to "Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise" in Proverbs 6:6.
Practical Application
While this verse describes a woman in a specific cultural context, its principles are universal and timeless:
Ultimately, Proverbs 31:27 presents a picture of a life characterized by purpose, productivity, and faithful stewardship, leading to blessing for the individual and their household.