Proverbs 31:29

KJV

Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all.

KJV (with Strong's)

Many {H7227} daughters {H1323} have done {H6213} virtuously {H2428}, but thou excellest {H5927} them all.

Complete Jewish Bible

"Many women have done wonderful things, but you surpass them all!"

Berean Standard Bible

“Many daughters have done noble things, but you surpass them all!”

American Standard Version

Many daughters have done worthily, But thou excellest them all.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 31:29 serves as a climactic commendation within the renowned acrostic poem celebrating the "woman of valor." This verse encapsulates the profound esteem and admiration bestowed upon the ideal wife and mother, affirming that while many women may achieve commendable deeds, her excellence surpasses them all. It highlights the unparalleled impact of a life characterized by diligence, wisdom, and godly character, earning her the highest praise from her family and community.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated near the conclusion of the Book of Proverbs, specifically within the famous acrostic poem of [Proverbs 31:10-31](/proverbs/31 "Proverbs 31 - The Woman of Valor"). This section, often referred to as the "Ode to the Virtuous Woman," provides a comprehensive and idealized portrait of a capable and godly wife. Following a detailed enumeration of her diverse responsibilities—from managing her household and engaging in commerce to caring for the poor and teaching wisdom—verse 29 acts as the ultimate affirmation from her most intimate circle: her husband and children. It is the culmination of the preceding verses, which describe her actions and character, leading to this declaration of her supreme worth. The poem itself serves as a practical guide and an aspirational standard for wisdom lived out in daily life, moving beyond abstract principles to concrete examples of righteous living.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israelite society, the household was the fundamental unit of economic and social life, and the wife played a pivotal role in its prosperity and reputation. Women were primarily responsible for domestic affairs, including food preparation, clothing production, and child-rearing, but a woman of valor, as depicted in this passage, extended her influence far beyond the home. She engaged in trade, managed property, and contributed significantly to the family's financial well-being. Public praise, especially from one's husband and children, was a highly valued form of honor in this patriarchal society. The concept of "valor" (Hebrew: *chayil*) was typically applied to men in battle or leadership, making its application to a woman here a powerful statement about her strength, capability, and significant contribution to the community's well-being, not just within the domestic sphere.

* **Key Themes:** Proverbs 31:29 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the book and the broader wisdom tradition. Foremost is the theme of **Unmatched Excellence**, asserting that the woman's virtues and accomplishments are not merely good, but superlative, setting her apart from others. This excellence is rooted in her character and actions, not superficial qualities, aligning with the book's emphasis on true wisdom over fleeting charm, as further elaborated in [Proverbs 31:30](/proverbs/31-30 "Proverbs 31:30 - Charm is Deceitful, Beauty is Vain"). Another key theme is **Recognition and Praise**, highlighting that genuine worth is acknowledged and celebrated by those who benefit most from it—her family. This public commendation underscores the lasting impact of a life lived diligently and wisely, echoing the idea that "a good name is more desirable than great riches" found in [Proverbs 22:1](/proverbs/22-1 "Proverbs 22:1 - A Good Name is More Desirable"). Finally, the verse reinforces the theme of **True Worth**, redefining success not by external appearance or societal accolades, but by inner character, practical wisdom, and a life lived in the [fear of the Lord](/proverbs/1-7 "Proverbs 1:7 - The Fear of the LORD is the Beginning of Knowledge").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **daughters (Hebrew, _bath'_):** While literally meaning "daughter," this term is used broadly in Hebrew to refer to women in general, or even to female inhabitants of a town or region. In this context, "many daughters" refers to a multitude of women, implying a comparison across the female population. The verse acknowledges that many women exhibit commendable qualities, setting the stage for the unparalleled praise of the woman of valor.
* **virtuously (Hebrew, _chayil'_):** This is a profoundly significant word, often translated as "virtuous," "noble," or "excellent." However, its root meaning is "strength," "force," "valor," "might," or "wealth." When applied to a woman, as in "woman of valor" (אֵשֶׁת חַיִל, *eshet chayil*), it describes a woman of strong character, capable action, and robust competence. It encompasses moral integrity, practical skill, diligence, and even economic prowess. It is not merely a passive goodness but an active, dynamic strength that enables her to manage her household, engage in commerce, and serve her community effectively.
* **excellest (Hebrew, _'âlâh'_):** This primitive root means "to ascend," "to go up," or "to mount." In a figurative sense, it conveys the idea of surpassing, excelling, or being superior. When the husband declares, "thou excellest them all," he is proclaiming that her *chayil*—her strength, virtue, and capability—rises above that of all other women. She is not just good among many good women; she stands head and shoulders above them, reaching a pinnacle of excellence.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Many daughters have done virtuously":** This opening clause acknowledges a common truth: many women in society are commendable. They perform good deeds, exhibit admirable qualities, and contribute positively to their families and communities. The phrase "done virtuously" uses the Hebrew word *chayil*, indicating that these women, too, possess strength, capability, and moral uprightness in their actions. This sets up a comparative framework, establishing a baseline of general female excellence against which the subject of the poem will be measured.
* **"but thou excellest them all."** This is the emphatic declaration of the husband, serving as the climax of the commendation. The conjunction "but" introduces a powerful contrast. While many women are good, this particular woman is supreme. The verb "excellest" (from *'âlâh*) signifies that she not only meets but far exceeds the standard set by others. Her unique combination of character, diligence, and wisdom elevates her to an unparalleled position of honor and effectiveness, making her an exemplar of true feminine strength and worth.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several powerful literary devices. **Contrast** is central, immediately established by juxtaposing "many daughters" who have done well with the singular "thou" who excels all of them. This highlights the exceptional nature of the woman being praised. **Hyperbole** is also present, as the declaration that she "excellest them all" is a strong, perhaps exaggerated, statement intended to convey ultimate praise and admiration rather than a literal, measurable comparison against every woman. This hyperbole serves to emphasize her supreme worth. Furthermore, the verse functions as a **Commendation**, a formal expression of praise and approval, delivered by her husband, which underscores the public and relational aspect of her earned honor. The entire poem, culminating in this verse, also uses **Personification** by embodying an ideal set of virtues and actions in a single, exemplary woman, making abstract concepts tangible and aspirational.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Proverbs 31:29 not only celebrates human excellence but also subtly points to a divine standard of worth. The "virtue" (chayil) described is not merely humanistic achievement but a reflection of godly character and wisdom, which the Book of Proverbs consistently links to the "fear of the Lord." This commendation of the woman of valor, therefore, becomes a testament to the fruit of a life lived in alignment with divine principles. Her excellence is not an end in itself but a demonstration of how wisdom, diligently applied, transforms both the individual and their sphere of influence. This passage encourages believers to pursue a life of active, robust virtue that earns genuine respect and leaves a lasting legacy, understanding that true honor comes from God and from those who witness His work in us.

* [Proverbs 12:4](/proverbs/12-4 "Proverbs 12:4 - A Virtuous Woman is a Crown to Her Husband")
* [Ruth 3:11](/ruth/3-11 "Ruth 3:11 - Ruth, a Woman of Valor")
* [Philippians 4:8](/philippians/4-8 "Philippians 4:8 - Whatever is Excellent or Praiseworthy")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 31:29 challenges us to consider what truly constitutes excellence and where we seek validation. In a world often preoccupied with external appearances, fleeting trends, and self-promotion, this verse redirects our focus to the profound impact of inner character, diligent service, and a life lived with integrity. The woman's excellence is not a passive state but the active outcome of her consistent choices, hard work, and compassionate heart. Her praise comes from those who know her best—her family—underscoring that our most significant legacy is often built within our homes and communities. This verse calls us to cultivate a life that genuinely benefits others, to pursue robust virtue (chayil) in all our endeavors, and to understand that true commendation is earned through a life that reflects God's wisdom and love, rather than sought through superficial means. It encourages us to be women and men of valor in our respective spheres, contributing meaningfully and leaving a lasting, positive impression through our actions and character.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What does "excellence" truly mean in my life, and how does it align with the biblical concept of "virtue" (chayil)?**
* **From whom do I most desire commendation, and how does that compare to the praise given to the woman in Proverbs 31:29?**
* **In what practical ways can I "excel" in my current roles and relationships, demonstrating diligence, wisdom, and compassion?**
* **How does my daily life reflect a pursuit of character and substance over superficial achievements or appearances?**

### FAQ
**What is the significance of the husband's praise in this verse?**

Answer: The husband's praise in [Proverbs 31:29](/proverbs/31-29 "Proverbs 31:29 - The Husband's Praise") is highly significant because it represents the ultimate validation within the societal and familial structure of ancient Israel. In a culture where a woman's reputation was closely tied to her household and her husband's standing, his public commendation was a powerful affirmation of her worth and success. It signifies that her excellence is not merely perceived by outsiders but is deeply experienced and appreciated by those closest to her, who are direct beneficiaries of her diligence, wisdom, and care. This praise underscores the intimate and relational nature of true honor, contrasting with superficial or external accolades.

**Does this verse imply that women should compete with each other for recognition?**

Answer: No, this verse does not advocate for competition among women. Instead, the comparison "Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all" serves as a literary device to highlight the extraordinary nature of the Proverbs 31 woman's character and accomplishments. It sets a high standard, not to foster rivalry, but to inspire. The emphasis is on the woman's inherent excellence and the profound impact of her life, not on her outperforming others for personal gain or glory. The passage celebrates a life of diligence, wisdom, and service, which naturally leads to commendation, rather than a competitive pursuit of it. The focus is on the quality of her *chayil* (valor/strength) and its fruit, which is intrinsically valuable regardless of comparison.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Proverbs 31:29 celebrates the pinnacle of human excellence in the "woman of valor," it ultimately points beyond human achievement to the perfect and unparalleled excellence found in Jesus Christ. The "virtue" or "valor" (chayil) described in the Proverbs 31 woman—her strength, capability, and moral integrity—finds its ultimate and flawless embodiment in Christ. He is the one who truly "excellest them all," not merely in human endeavor but in divine perfection, righteousness, and redemptive power. While many prophets and righteous individuals "have done virtuously" in their service to God, Christ alone perfectly fulfilled all righteousness and accomplished the ultimate work of salvation, as declared in [John 19:30](/john/19-30 "John 19:30 - It is Finished"). His life, characterized by perfect obedience to the Father and selfless love for humanity, surpasses all human virtue. The praise given to the woman in Proverbs 31, "her works praise her in the gates" ([Proverbs 31:31](/proverbs/31-31 "Proverbs 31:31 - Her Works Praise Her")), foreshadows the eternal praise due to Christ, whose finished work on the cross secures salvation and eternal life for all who believe ([Hebrews 10:12-14](/hebrews/10-12 "Hebrews 10:12-14 - Christ's Perfect Sacrifice")). He is the true "Lamb of God" ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")) whose singular act of valor and self-sacrifice brings about reconciliation and glory far beyond any earthly commendation. In Him, all true virtue is found, and through Him, believers are empowered to live lives that reflect His excellence, bringing glory to God ([Ephesians 2:10](/ephesians/2-10 "Ephesians 2:10 - Created for Good Works")).

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

Song Of Solomon 6:8

There are threescore queens, and fourscore concubines, and virgins without number.

Song Of Solomon 6:9

My dove, my undefiled is [but] one; she [is] the [only] one of her mother, she [is] the choice [one] of her that bare her. The daughters saw her, and blessed her; [yea], the queens and the concubines, and they praised her.

Ephesians 5:27

That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.