Proverbs 31:28

Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband [also], and he praiseth her.

Her children {H1121} arise up {H6965}, and call her blessed {H833}; her husband {H1167} also, and he praiseth {H1984} her.

Her children arise; they make her happy; her husband too, as he praises her:

Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband praises her as well:

Her children rise up, and call her blessed; Her husbandalso, and he praiseth her, saying:

Commentary

Proverbs 31:28 is a poignant verse that captures the culmination of the virtuous woman's diligent life described throughout the preceding verses of this famous chapter. It highlights the profound respect and honor she receives from those closest to her.

Context

This verse is part of the extensive and celebrated poem in Proverbs 31:10-31, often referred to as the description of the "Proverbs 31 Woman" or the "excellent wife." This acrostic poem, attributed to King Lemuel's mother, outlines the qualities of an ideal woman who manages her household with wisdom, strength, and grace, contributing significantly to her family's well-being and prosperity. Verse 28 serves as a powerful testament to the positive impact of her character and work, demonstrating the ultimate reward of her faithfulness and industry.

Key Themes

  • Public Affirmation and Honor: The verse emphasizes the public recognition of her worth. Her children "arise up" (a sign of respect and reverence) and "call her blessed," signifying their deep appreciation and acknowledgment of her positive influence. This isn't just private admiration but an open declaration.
  • The Fruit of Righteous Living: The praise she receives is not random; it is the natural consequence of her diligent work, wise decisions, and godly character, as detailed in verses like Proverbs 31:15 (rising early) and Proverbs 31:27 (watching over her household). Her actions speak for themselves, earning respect and commendation.
  • Marital Appreciation: Her husband's praise ("he praiseth her") underscores the mutual respect and admiration within the marriage. His commendation validates her efforts and character, reinforcing the picture of a harmonious and flourishing family unit. This public praise from her husband is a sign of his deep trust and value for her.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "blessed" here is โ€™ashar (ืึธืฉึทืืจ), which means to be happy, fortunate, or prosperous. When her children call her blessed, they are acknowledging her as a source of their well-being and happiness, recognizing the positive impact she has had on their lives. The word for "praiseth" is halal (ื”ึธืœึทืœ), which means to shine, to boast, to commend, or to glorify. This isn't mere casual approval but a strong, public declaration of admiration and honor, indicating deep respect and appreciation for her character and accomplishments.

Practical Application

Proverbs 31:28 offers timeless insights for all individuals:

  • Value of Character: This verse reminds us that true legacy is built on character and diligent service, not fleeting external appearances. The lasting impact of a godly life is seen in the respect and love it garners from those closest.
  • Affirmation in Relationships: It highlights the importance of verbal affirmation within families. Children should be taught to honor their parents (Exodus 20:12), and husbands are encouraged to publicly appreciate their wives. Such praise strengthens family bonds and fosters a healthy home environment.
  • Long-Term Impact: The praise in this verse is a testament to a life lived consistently with wisdom and virtue. It encourages believers to invest in qualities that yield lasting fruit and honor, both in this life and beyond, as suggested in Proverbs 31:31: "Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates."
Note: If the commentary doesnโ€™t appear instantly, please allow 2โ€“5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated โ€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • 2 Timothy 3:15

    And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.

  • 2 Timothy 3:17

    That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.

  • 2 Timothy 1:5

    When I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice; and I am persuaded that in thee also.

  • 1 Kings 2:19

    Bathsheba therefore went unto king Solomon, to speak unto him for Adonijah. And the king rose up to meet her, and bowed himself unto her, and sat down on his throne, and caused a seat to be set for the king's mother; and she sat on his right hand.

  • Psalms 116:16

    O LORD, truly I [am] thy servant; I [am] thy servant, [and] the son of thine handmaid: thou hast loosed my bonds.

  • Proverbs 31:1

    ยถ The words of king Lemuel, the prophecy that his mother taught him.

  • Isaiah 62:4

    Thou shalt no more be termed Forsaken; neither shall thy land any more be termed Desolate: but thou shalt be called Hephzibah, and thy land Beulah: for the LORD delighteth in thee, and thy land shall be married.
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