Proverbs 31:21
New International Version
When it snows, she has no fear for her household; for all of them are clothed in scarlet.

New Living Translation
She has no fear of winter for her household, for everyone has warm clothes.

English Standard Version
She is not afraid of snow for her household, for all her household are clothed in scarlet.

Berean Standard Bible
When it snows, she has no fear for her household, for they are all clothed in scarlet.

Berean Literal Bible
She does not fear for her house because of snow, for all her house is clothed in scarlet.

King James Bible
She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household are clothed with scarlet.

New King James Version
She is not afraid of snow for her household, For all her household is clothed with scarlet.

New American Standard Bible
She is not afraid of the snow for her household, For all her household are clothed with scarlet.

NASB 1995
She is not afraid of the snow for her household, For all her household are clothed with scarlet.

NASB 1977
She is not afraid of the snow for her household, For all her household are clothed with scarlet.

Legacy Standard Bible
She is not afraid of the snow for her household, For all her household are clothed with scarlet.

Amplified Bible
She does not fear the snow for her household, For all in her household are clothed in [expensive] scarlet [wool].

Berean Annotated Bible
When it snows, she has no fear for her household, for they are all clothed in scarlet (doubly clothed).

Christian Standard Bible
She is not afraid for her household when it snows, for all in her household are doubly clothed.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
She is not afraid for her household when it snows, for all in her household are doubly clothed.

American Standard Version
She is not afraid of the snow for her household; For all her household are clothed with scarlet.

Contemporary English Version
Her family has warm clothing, and so she doesn't worry when it snows.

English Revised Version
She is not afraid of the snow for her household; for all her household are clothed with scarlet.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
She does not fear for her family when it snows because her whole family has a double layer of clothing.

Good News Translation
She doesn't worry when it snows, because her family has warm clothing.

International Standard Version
She is unafraid of winter's effect on her household, because all of them are warmly clothed.

NET Bible
She is not afraid of the snow for her household, for all of her household are clothed with scarlet.

New Heart English Bible
She is not afraid of the snow for her household; for all her household are clothed with scarlet.

Webster's Bible Translation
She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household are clothed with scarlet.
Majority Text Translations
Majority Standard Bible
When it snows, she has no fear for her household, for they are all clothed in scarlet.

World English Bible
She is not afraid of the snow for her household, for all her household are clothed with scarlet.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
She is not afraid of her household from snow, "" For all her household are clothed [with] scarlet.

Berean Literal Bible
She does not fear for her house because of snow, for all her house is clothed in scarlet.

Young's Literal Translation
She is not afraid of her household from snow, For all her household are clothed with scarlet.

Smith's Literal Translation
She will not fear for her house from snow, for all her house put on double.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
She shall not fear for her house in the cold of snow: for dl her domestics are clothed with double garments.

Catholic Public Domain Version
She shall not fear, in the cold of snow, for her household. For all those of her household have been clothed two-fold.

New American Bible
She is not concerned for her household when it snows— all her charges are doubly clothed.

New Revised Standard Version
She is not afraid for her household when it snows, for all her household are clothed in crimson.
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
The members of her household are not afraid of snow; for all of them are clothed with scarlet.

Peshitta Holy Bible Translated
The children in her house have not been afraid of the snow, because all of them wear scarlet.
OT Translations
JPS Tanakh 1917
She is not afraid of the snow for her household; For all her household are clothed with scarlet.

Brenton Septuagint Translation
Her husband is not anxious about those at home when he tarries anywhere abroad: for all her household are clothed.

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
The Virtues of a Noble Woman
20She opens her arms to the poor and reaches out her hands to the needy. 21When it snows, she has no fear for her household, for they are all clothed in scarlet. 22She makes coverings for her bed; her clothing is fine linen and purple.…

Cross References
When it snows,

Job 37:6
For He says to the snow, ‘Fall on the earth,’ and to the gentle rain, ‘Pour out a mighty downpour.’

Psalm 147:16
He spreads the snow like wool; He scatters the frost like ashes;

Isaiah 55:10
For just as rain and snow fall from heaven and do not return without watering the earth, making it bud and sprout, and providing seed to sow and food to eat,
she has no fear for her household,

Proverbs 14:26
He who fears the LORD is secure in confidence, and his children shall have a place of refuge.

Psalm 112:7
He does not fear bad news; his heart is steadfast, trusting in the LORD.

Isaiah 32:18
Then my people will dwell in a peaceful place, in safe and secure places of rest.
for they are all clothed in scarlet.

Nahum 2:3
The shields of his mighty men are red; the valiant warriors are dressed in scarlet. The fittings of the chariots flash like fire on the day they are prepared, and the spears of cypress have been brandished.

2 Samuel 1:24
O daughters of Israel, weep for Saul, who clothed you in scarlet and luxury, who decked your garments with ornaments of gold.

Revelation 17:4
The woman was dressed in purple and scarlet, and adorned with gold and precious stones and pearls. She held in her hand a golden cup full of abominations and the impurities of her sexual immorality.
Matthew 6:25-34
Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? / Look at the birds of the air: They do not sow or reap or gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? / Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life? …

Luke 12:22-31
Then Jesus said to His disciples, “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat, or about your body, what you will wear. / For life is more than food, and the body more than clothes. / Consider the ravens: They do not sow or reap, they have no storehouse or barn; yet God feeds them. How much more valuable you are than the birds! …

1 Timothy 5:8
If anyone does not provide for his own, and especially his own household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.

Philippians 4:19
And my God will supply all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus.

James 2:15-16
Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. / If one of you tells him, “Go in peace; stay warm and well fed,” but does not provide for his physical needs, what good is that?

2 Corinthians 9:8
And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things, at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.

Matthew 25:35-40
For I was hungry and you gave Me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave Me something to drink, I was a stranger and you took Me in, / I was naked and you clothed Me, I was sick and you looked after Me, I was in prison and you visited Me.’ / Then the righteous will answer Him, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You something to drink? …


Treasury of Scripture

She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household are clothed with scarlet.

afraid

Proverbs 25:20
As he that taketh away a garment in cold weather, and as vinegar upon nitre, so is he that singeth songs to an heavy heart.

scarlet

Genesis 45:22
To all of them he gave each man changes of raiment; but to Benjamin he gave three hundred pieces of silver, and five changes of raiment.

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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












When it snows
This phrase indicates a time of cold and potential hardship. Snow is rare in many parts of Israel, suggesting a metaphor for difficult or challenging times. The mention of snow can symbolize trials or adversity that the virtuous woman anticipates and prepares for, reflecting her wisdom and foresight. In biblical literature, snow is often used to denote purity (Isaiah 1:18) or the cleansing power of God (Psalm 51:7).

she has no fear for her household
The absence of fear highlights the woman's confidence and trust in her preparations and in God's provision. Her diligent work and planning ensure that her family is secure, reflecting the biblical principle of stewardship and responsibility. This echoes the sentiment found in Proverbs 3:25-26, where trust in the Lord provides security and peace.

for they are all clothed in scarlet
Scarlet, a rich and costly dye, signifies wealth, honor, and protection. The use of scarlet implies that the household is not only prepared for the cold but is also adorned with dignity and care. This can be seen as a type of Christ, who clothes believers in righteousness (Isaiah 61:10). The color also connects to the blood of Christ, symbolizing redemption and covering. Historically, scarlet was a color associated with royalty and high status, indicating the woman's ability to provide well for her family.

Persons / Places / Events
1. The Virtuous Woman
The subject of Proverbs 31, often referred to as the "Proverbs 31 Woman," is an idealized figure representing wisdom, diligence, and godly character. She is a model for women in her care for her household and her fear of the Lord.

2. Her Household
This refers to the family and servants under the care of the virtuous woman. Her household benefits from her foresight and preparation.

3. Snow
Symbolic of adverse conditions or challenges, snow represents the trials or difficulties that may come upon the household.

4. Scarlet Clothing
In the original Hebrew, "scarlet" (shani) can also imply double thickness, suggesting warmth and protection. It signifies the woman's preparedness and the quality of care she provides.
Teaching Points
Diligence and Preparation
The virtuous woman exemplifies the importance of being diligent and prepared for future challenges. Her foresight ensures her household is well-equipped to face adverse conditions.

Trust in God's Provision
While she prepares, her lack of fear also reflects a trust in God's provision. We are called to balance our efforts with faith in God's care.

Quality and Care
The use of "scarlet" suggests not just any clothing, but quality and care. We should strive to provide the best for those under our care, reflecting God's love and provision.

Facing Challenges with Confidence
The virtuous woman's confidence in the face of snow teaches us to face life's challenges with assurance, knowing we have prepared and trust in God's faithfulness.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1. What is the meaning of Proverbs 31:21?

2. How does Proverbs 31:21 inspire preparedness for future challenges in our lives?

3. What does "clothed in scarlet" symbolize about the Proverbs 31 woman's household?

4. How can we ensure our families are spiritually "clothed" for life's winters?

5. Which other scriptures emphasize the importance of providing for one's family?

6. How can we practically apply Proverbs 31:21 to our daily family responsibilities?

7. How does Proverbs 31:21 reflect the role of women in biblical times?

8. What is the significance of "scarlet" in Proverbs 31:21?

9. How does Proverbs 31:21 relate to the theme of preparedness?

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

11. What defines a virtuous woman in Proverbs 31?

12. Proverbs 21:31: If ultimate victory comes from God rather than human effort, why does history record victories by armies and leaders who seem to have no divine guidance?

13. Where is the historical or archaeological evidence that ancient women held such extensive responsibilities and freedoms as described in Proverbs 31:10-31?

14. Does Proverbs 31:10-31 conflict with other biblical passages, like 1 Timothy 2:11-12, that appear to limit women's roles?
What Does Proverbs 31:21 Mean
When it snows

• The line opens with a real-world event—snowfall—that signals hardship, cold, and possible danger. Scripture often uses seasonal imagery to teach diligence (Proverbs 6:6–8: “Go to the ant… it prepares its provisions in summer; it gathers its food at harvest”).

• Snow reminds us that difficulty is inevitable yet foreseeable. God orders the seasons (Genesis 8:22), so believers who walk in wisdom prepare rather than panic.

• Like Joseph storing grain before famine (Genesis 41:48–49), the Proverbs 31 woman anticipates needs. Her foresight honors the Lord who calls us to be good stewards.


she has no fear for her household

• Confidence replaces anxiety because preparations are complete. Psalm 112:7 says of the righteous, “He will not fear bad news; his heart is steadfast, trusting in the LORD.”

• Fear is unnecessary where faith and prudent action meet. Jesus echoed this in Matthew 6:34: “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow.”

• The family benefits from her trust in God’s provision expressed through practical readiness, a living example of James 2:17—faith proven by works.


for they are all clothed in scarlet

• “Scarlet” points to warm, high-quality garments, not bare survival gear. Excellence, not excess, marks her care (Proverbs 31:13: “She selects wool and flax and works with willing hands”).

• Scarlet also carries royal and covenant imagery (Exodus 26:1; 2 Samuel 1:24), hinting that she wants her household to reflect dignity as God’s people.

• Proper clothing guards the body; loving preparation guards the heart. Revelation 7:14 pictures believers “washing their robes and making them white,” underscoring how God ultimately clothes His own—she mirrors that divine concern on a household scale.


summary

Adversity will come, like certain winter snow. Because the Proverbs 31 woman trusts God’s order and acts in advance, she does not fear. Her family faces the cold wrapped in warm, dignified garments, and her confidence rests not in material stockpiles but in the wise, proactive stewardship that faith in the Lord inspires.

(21) She is not afraid of the snow.--Not uncommon in winter-time in Palestine and the neighbouring countries. (Comp. 2Samuel 23:20; Psalm 147:16.)

All her household are clothed with scarlet, which by its very colour suggests warmth and comfort.

Verse 21. - LAMED. She is not afraid of the snow for her household. "Show," says Dr. Geikie ('Holy Land,' 2:58), "covers the streets of Jerusalem two winters in three, but it generally comes in small quantities, and soon disappears. Yet there are sometimes very snowy winters. That of 1879, for example, left behind it seventeen inches of snow, even where there was no drift, and the strange spectacle of snow lying unmelted for two or three weeks was seen in the hollows on the hillsides. Thousands of years have wrought no change in this aspect of the winter months, for Bennaiah, one of David's mighty men, 'slew a lion in the midst of a pit in the time of snow' (2 Samuel 23:20)." She has no fears concerning the comfort and health of her family even in the severest winter. For all her household are clothed with scarlet; with warm garments. The word used is שָׁנִים (shanim), derived from a verb meaning "to shine," and denoting a crimson or deep scarlet colour. This colour was supposed, and rightly, to absorb and retain heat, as white to repel it; being made of wool, the garments would be warm as well as stately in appearance. St. Jerome has duplicibus (shenaim), "with double garments," i.e. with one over the other. Warm garments were the more necessary as the only means of heating rooms was the introduction of portable chafing dishes containing bunting charcoal (see Jeremiah 36:22, etc). The Septuagint has taken liberties with the text, "Her husband is not anxious concerning domestic matters when he tarries anywhere [χρονίζη for which Delitzsch suggests χιονίζ], for all her household are well clothed." Spiritually, the Church fears not the severity of temptation or the chill of unbelief, when her children take refuge in the blood of Christ.

Parallel Commentaries ...


Hebrew
When it snows,
מִשָּׁ֑לֶג (miš·šā·leḡ)
Preposition-m | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 7950: Snow

she is not
לֹא־ (lō-)
Adverb - Negative particle
Strong's 3808: Not, no

afraid
תִירָ֣א (ṯî·rā)
Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person feminine singular
Strong's 3372: To fear, to revere, caus, to frighten

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

for
כִּ֥י (kî)
Conjunction
Strong's 3588: A relative conjunction

[they are] all
כָל־ (ḵāl)
Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 3605: The whole, all, any, every

clothed
לָבֻ֥שׁ (lā·ḇuš)
Verb - Qal - QalPassParticiple - masculine singular
Strong's 3847: Wrap around, to put on a, garment, clothe

in scarlet.
שָׁנִֽים׃ (šā·nîm)
Noun - masculine plural
Strong's 8144: Crimson, the insect, its color, stuff dyed with it


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OT Poetry: Proverbs 31:21 She is not afraid of the snow (Prov. Pro Pr)
Proverbs 31:20
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