Proverbs 31:15
New International Version
She gets up while it is still night; she provides food for her family and portions for her female servants.

New Living Translation
She gets up before dawn to prepare breakfast for her household and plan the day’s work for her servant girls.

English Standard Version
She rises while it is yet night and provides food for her household and portions for her maidens.

Berean Standard Bible
She rises while it is still night to provide food for her household and portions for her maidservants.

King James Bible
She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens.

New King James Version
She also rises while it is yet night, And provides food for her household, And a portion for her maidservants.

New American Standard Bible
And she rises while it is still night And gives food to her household, And portions to her attendants.

NASB 1995
She rises also while it is still night And gives food to her household And portions to her maidens.

NASB 1977
She rises also while it is still night, And gives food to her household, And portions to her maidens.

Legacy Standard Bible
And she rises while it is still night, And gives food to her household And a portion to her young women.

Amplified Bible
She rises also while it is still night And gives food to her household And assigns tasks to her maids.

Christian Standard Bible
She rises while it is still night and provides food for her household and portions for her female servants.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
She rises while it is still night and provides food for her household and portions for her female servants.

American Standard Version
She riseth also while it is yet night, And giveth food to her household, And their task to her maidens.

Contemporary English Version
She gets up before daylight to prepare food for her family and for her servants.

English Revised Version
She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat to her household, and their task to her maidens.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
She wakes up while it is still dark and gives food to her family and portions of food to her female slaves.

Good News Translation
She gets up before daylight to prepare food for her family and to tell her servant women what to do.

International Standard Version
She rises while it is still night, preparing meals for her family and providing for her women servants.

NET Bible
She also gets up while it is still night, and provides food for her household and a portion to her female servants.

New Heart English Bible
She rises also while it is yet night, gives food to her household, and portions for her servant girls.

Webster's Bible Translation
She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth food to her household, and a portion to her maidens.
Majority Text Translations
Majority Standard Bible
She rises while it is still night to provide food for her household and portions for her maidservants.

World English Bible
She rises also while it is yet night, gives food to her household, and portions for her servant girls.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
Indeed, she rises while yet night, "" And gives food to her household, "" And a portion to her girls.

Young's Literal Translation
Yea, she riseth while yet night, And giveth food to her household, And a portion to her damsels.

Smith's Literal Translation
She will rise while yet night, and she will give food to her house, and a portion to her girls.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
And she hath risen in the night, and given a prey to her household, and victuals to her maidens.

Catholic Public Domain Version
And she has risen in the night, and given a prey to her household, and provisions to her maids.

New American Bible
She rises while it is still night, and distributes food to her household, a portion to her maidservants.

New Revised Standard Version
She rises while it is still night and provides food for her household and tasks for her servant-girls.
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
She rises also while it is yet night, and gives food to her household and work to her maids.

Peshitta Holy Bible Translated
She is risen in the night and has given food to the children in her house, and work to her girls.
OT Translations
JPS Tanakh 1917
She riseth also while it is yet night, And giveth food to her household, And a portion to her maidens.

Brenton Septuagint Translation
And she rises by night, and gives food to her household, and appointed tasks to her maidens.

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
The Virtues of a Noble Woman
14She is like the merchant ships, bringing her food from afar. 15She rises while it is still night to provide food for her household and portions for her maidservants. 16She appraises a field and buys it; from her earnings she plants a vineyard.…

Cross References
Proverbs 6:6-8
Walk in the manner of the ant, O slacker; observe its ways and become wise. / Without a commander, without an overseer or ruler, / it prepares its provisions in summer; it gathers its food at harvest.

Proverbs 20:13
Do not love sleep, or you will grow poor; open your eyes, and you will have plenty of food.

Proverbs 24:27
Complete your outdoor work and prepare your field; after that, you may build your house.

Proverbs 14:1
Every wise woman builds her house, but a foolish one tears it down with her own hands.

Proverbs 31:27
She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.

Genesis 18:6
So Abraham hurried into the tent and said to Sarah, “Quick! Prepare three seahs of fine flour, knead it, and bake some bread.”

Ruth 2:7
She has said, ‘Please let me glean and gather among the sheaves after the harvesters.’ So she came out and has continued from morning until now, except that she rested a short time in the shelter.”

1 Timothy 5:10
and well known for good deeds such as bringing up children, entertaining strangers, washing the feet of the saints, imparting relief to the afflicted, and devoting herself to every good work.

Titus 2:5
to be self-controlled, pure, managers of their households, kind, and submissive to their own husbands, so that the word of God will not be discredited.

Luke 10:38-42
As they traveled along, Jesus entered a village where a woman named Martha welcomed Him into her home. / She had a sister named Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet listening to His message. / But Martha was distracted by all the preparations to be made. She came to Jesus and said, “Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her to help me!” ...

Acts 9:36-39
In Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha (which is translated as Dorcas), who was always occupied with works of kindness and charity. / At that time, however, she became sick and died, and her body was washed and placed in an upper room. / Since Lydda was near Joppa, the disciples, hearing that Peter was there, sent two men to urge him, “Come to us without delay.” ...

1 Thessalonians 4:11-12
and to aspire to live quietly, to attend to your own matters, and to work with your own hands, as we instructed you. / Then you will behave properly toward outsiders, without being dependent on anyone.

2 Thessalonians 3:10-12
For even while we were with you, we gave you this command: “If anyone is unwilling to work, he shall not eat.” / For we hear that some of you are leading undisciplined lives, accomplishing nothing, but being busybodies. / We command and urge such people by our Lord Jesus Christ to begin working quietly to earn their own living.

Matthew 25:1-13
“At that time the kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. / Five of them were foolish, and five were wise. / The foolish ones took their lamps but did not take along any extra oil. ...

Ecclesiastes 9:10
Whatever you find to do with your hands, do it with all your might, for in Sheol, where you are going, there is no work or planning or knowledge or wisdom.


Treasury of Scripture

She rises also while it is yet night, and gives meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens.

riseth

Joshua 3:1
And Joshua rose early in the morning; and they removed from Shittim, and came to Jordan, he and all the children of Israel, and lodged there before they passed over.

2 Chronicles 36:15
And the LORD God of their fathers sent to them by his messengers, rising up betimes, and sending; because he had compassion on his people, and on his dwelling place:

Psalm 119:147,148
I prevented the dawning of the morning, and cried: I hoped in thy word…

and giveth

Matthew 24:25
Behold, I have told you before.

Luke 12:42
And the Lord said, Who then is that faithful and wise steward, whom his lord shall make ruler over his household, to give them their portion of meat in due season?

Jump to Previous
Damsels Dark Day's Family Food Gets Girls Gives Household Maidens Meat Night Portion Portions Provides Rises Riseth Servant Servant-Girls Task Tasks Work
Jump to Next
Damsels Dark Day's Family Food Gets Girls Gives Household Maidens Meat Night Portion Portions Provides Rises Riseth Servant Servant-Girls Task Tasks Work
Proverbs 31
1. Lemuel's lesson of chastity and temperance
6. The afflicted are to be comforted and defended
10. The praise and properties of a good wife














She rises while it is still night
This phrase highlights the diligence and industrious nature of the virtuous woman. Rising early was a common practice in ancient times, especially in agrarian societies where work began at dawn. This reflects her commitment and dedication to her family, mirroring the Proverbs 31 woman's overall character. Biblically, rising early is often associated with seeking God and preparing for the day (Psalm 5:3, Mark 1:35). It signifies readiness and a proactive approach to responsibilities.

to provide food for her household
In the historical context, providing food was a crucial task, often involving grinding grain, baking bread, and preparing meals from scratch. This phrase underscores her role as a provider and caretaker, ensuring her family's needs are met. It also reflects the biblical principle of stewardship and care for one's family (1 Timothy 5:8). The act of providing food can be seen as a type of Christ, who provides spiritual nourishment to His followers (John 6:35).

and portions for her maidservants
This indicates her leadership and management skills, as she not only cares for her family but also for those who work for her. In ancient households, maidservants were common, and their well-being was a reflection of the household's prosperity and the mistress's character. This phrase highlights her fairness and generosity, aligning with biblical teachings on treating others with kindness and justice (Colossians 4:1). It also suggests a harmonious household where everyone is valued and cared for, reflecting the unity and love that should characterize Christian communities.

Persons / Places / Events
1. The Virtuous Woman
The central figure in Proverbs 31, often referred to as the "Proverbs 31 Woman," is an idealized representation of a godly and industrious woman. She embodies wisdom, diligence, and care for her family and community.

2. Her Household
This includes her immediate family and those who live under her care. The household is a place of provision, safety, and nurturing, reflecting the woman's commitment to her responsibilities.

3. Maidservants
These are the servants or helpers in the household. The virtuous woman ensures they are well-cared for, demonstrating her leadership and compassion.

4. Night
Symbolically, the night represents a time of rest, yet the virtuous woman rises early, indicating her dedication and willingness to sacrifice personal comfort for the well-being of others.

5. Food
Represents both physical sustenance and the broader concept of provision and care. The act of providing food is a tangible expression of love and responsibility.
Teaching Points
Diligence and Hard Work
The virtuous woman exemplifies diligence by rising early to fulfill her responsibilities. Christians are encouraged to approach their duties with the same dedication and work ethic.

Sacrificial Love
Her willingness to rise while it is still night demonstrates sacrificial love. Believers are called to put the needs of others before their own comfort.

Leadership and Stewardship
By providing for her maidservants, the virtuous woman shows leadership and good stewardship. Christians should lead with integrity and care for those under their influence.

Preparation and Planning
The act of rising early to prepare food highlights the importance of planning and foresight. Believers should be proactive in managing their households and responsibilities.

Community and Care
The virtuous woman's care extends beyond her family to her maidservants, illustrating the importance of community and caring for all within one's sphere of influence.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1. What is the meaning of Proverbs 31:15?

2. How does Proverbs 31:15 inspire diligence in daily responsibilities?

3. What does "provides food" teach about caring for family needs?

4. How can we prioritize time like the Proverbs 31 woman?

5. Connect Proverbs 31:15 with Colossians 3:23 on working heartily for the Lord.

6. How can we implement early rising to enhance productivity and service?

7. How does Proverbs 31:15 reflect the role of women in biblical times?

8. What cultural practices influenced the depiction of women in Proverbs 31:15?

9. How does Proverbs 31:15 align with modern views on gender roles?

10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Proverbs 31?

11. How can you consistently remain in Him?

12. Does Proverbs 31:10–31 conflict with other biblical passages, like 1 Timothy 2:11–12, that appear to limit women's roles?

13. In Job 31:13-15, how does Job's stance on treating servants align with what we know of ancient slavery practices and laws?

14. What does 'More Precious Than Rubies' mean?
What Does Proverbs 31:15 Mean
She rises

Proverbs 31:15 opens, “She rises…”—conveying initiative and personal responsibility. Like the ant praised in Proverbs 6:6–8, she is not prodded by others; her diligence springs from within. Jesus modeled this same spirit: “Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, He got up, went out, and departed to a solitary place to pray” (Mark 1:35). The verse invites believers to value purposeful beginnings to each day, choosing obedience over slothfulness (Ecclesiastes 9:10).


while it is still night

Rising “while it is still night” underscores sacrifice. It is inconvenient, yet she lays comfort aside for the good of others. Psalm 119:147 echoes this: “I rise before dawn and cry for help; I have put my hope in Your word.” Though darkness surrounds, she moves in faith—trusting God to supply strength (Isaiah 40:31) and demonstrating watchfulness akin to the wise virgins who were ready when the bridegroom came (Matthew 25:4).


to provide food for her household

Her first concern is the well-being of those under her roof. This aligns with 1 Timothy 5:8: “If anyone does not provide for his own, and especially his household, he has denied the faith.” Practical love is shown in tangible care, echoing Sarah hastening to knead dough for guests in Genesis 18:6 and Jesus providing breakfast for weary disciples in John 21:9–13. Key takeaways:

• Provision is daily, not sporadic (Exodus 16:4).

• Good stewardship plans ahead (Proverbs 21:5).

• Nourishing others includes spiritual encouragement (Deuteronomy 6:6–7).


and portions for her maidservants

She extends care beyond immediate family to her workers, distributing “portions” with fairness. Colossians 4:1 urges, “Masters, supply your slaves with what is right and fair, since you know that you also have a Master in heaven.” By sharing, she mirrors Boaz, who offered Ruth roasted grain (Ruth 2:14), and she prefigures the early church’s equitable distribution so that “there were no needy persons among them” (Acts 4:34). Her leadership:

• Recognizes the dignity of every person (Job 31:13–15).

• Rewards labor appropriately (James 5:4).

• Models servant-hearted authority (Matthew 20:26–28).


summary

Proverbs 31:15 paints a portrait of disciplined love. Rising before dawn, the virtuous woman chooses self-denial, diligent planning, and compassionate oversight so that everyone under her care—family and servants alike—receives timely provision. Her example calls believers to energetic, sacrificial service rooted in confidence that God honors faithful stewardship.

(15) And giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens.--Gives out food for her household, and the allotted portion of provisions (comp. Proverbs 30:8) or work (comp. Exodus 5:14) to her maidens.

Verse 15. - VAV. She riseth also while it is yet night. Before dawn she is up and stirring, to be ready for her daily occupation. A lamp is always kept burning at night in Eastern houses, and as it is of very small dimensions, the careful housewife has to rise at midnight to replenish the oil, and she often then begins her household work by grinding the corn or preparing something for next day's meals (comp. ver. 18). Early rising before any great undertaking is continually mentioned in Scripture (see Genesis 19:2; Genesis 22:3; Psalm 57:8; Jeremiah 7:13; Jeremiah 25:4, etc.; Mark 16:2; John 20:1). And giveth meat to her household; deditquae praedam domesticis suis, Vulgate. The word for "meat" is tereph, which means "food torn in pieces" with the teeth (Psalm 111:5), and hence food to be eaten. The wife thus early prepares or distributes the food which will be wanted for the day. And a portion to her maidens. Chok, "final portion," may apply either to work or food. The Vulgate has cibaria, "meat;" Septuagint, ἔργα, "tasks." The former, which is in accordance with Proverbs 30:8, would be merely a repetition of the second clause, the meat mentioned there being here called the allotted portion, and would be simply tautological. If we take it in the sense of "appointed labour," we get a new idea, very congruous with the housewife's activity (comp. Exodus 5:14, where the same word is used in the case of the enforced labour of the Israelites).

Parallel Commentaries ...


Hebrew
She rises
וַתָּ֤קָם ׀ (wat·tā·qām)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Consecutive imperfect - third person feminine singular
Strong's 6965: To arise, stand up, stand

while it is still
בְּע֬וֹד (bə·‘ō·wḏ)
Preposition-b | Adverb
Strong's 5750: Iteration, continuance, again, repeatedly, still, more

night
לַ֗יְלָה (lay·lāh)
Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 3915: A twist, night, adversity

to provide
וַתִּתֵּ֣ן (wat·tit·tên)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Consecutive imperfect - third person feminine singular
Strong's 5414: To give, put, set

food
טֶ֣רֶף (ṭe·rep̄)
Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 2964: Something torn, a fragment, a fresh leaf, prey, food

for her household
לְבֵיתָ֑הּ (lə·ḇê·ṯāh)
Preposition-l | Noun - masculine singular construct | third person feminine singular
Strong's 1004: A house

and portions
וְ֝חֹ֗ק (wə·ḥōq)
Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 2706: Something prescribed or owed, a statute

for her maidservants.
לְנַעֲרֹתֶֽיהָ׃ (lə·na·‘ă·rō·ṯe·hā)
Preposition-l | Noun - feminine plural construct | third person feminine singular
Strong's 5291: A girl, maiden


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OT Poetry: Proverbs 31:15 She rises also while it is yet (Prov. Pro Pr)
Proverbs 31:14
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