Verse (Click for Chapter) New International Version She makes coverings for her bed; she is clothed in fine linen and purple. New Living Translation She makes her own bedspreads. She dresses in fine linen and purple gowns. English Standard Version She makes bed coverings for herself; her clothing is fine linen and purple. Berean Standard Bible She makes coverings for her bed; her clothing is fine linen and purple. King James Bible She maketh herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing is silk and purple. New King James Version She makes tapestry for herself; Her clothing is fine linen and purple. New American Standard Bible She makes coverings for herself; Her clothing is fine linen and purple. NASB 1995 She makes coverings for herself; Her clothing is fine linen and purple. NASB 1977 She makes coverings for herself; Her clothing is fine linen and purple. Legacy Standard Bible She makes coverings for herself; Her clothing is fine linen and purple. Amplified Bible She makes for herself coverlets, cushions, and rugs of tapestry. Her clothing is linen, pure and fine, and purple [wool]. Christian Standard Bible She makes her own bed coverings; her clothing is fine linen and purple. Holman Christian Standard Bible She makes her own bed coverings; her clothing is fine linen and purple. American Standard Version She maketh for herself carpets of tapestry; Her clothing is fine linen and purple. Contemporary English Version She does her own sewing, and everything she wears is beautiful. English Revised Version She maketh for herself carpets of tapestry; her clothing is fine linen and purple. GOD'S WORD® Translation She makes quilts for herself. Her clothes are [made of] linen and purple cloth. Good News Translation She makes bedspreads and wears clothes of fine purple linen. International Standard Version She creates her own bedding, using fine linen and violet cloth. NET Bible She makes for herself coverlets; her clothing is fine linen and purple. New Heart English Bible She makes for herself carpets of tapestry. Her clothing is fine linen and purple. Webster's Bible Translation She maketh herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing is silk and purple. Majority Text Translations Majority Standard BibleShe makes coverings for her bed; her clothing is fine linen and purple. World English Bible She makes for herself carpets of tapestry. Her clothing is fine linen and purple. Literal Translations Literal Standard VersionShe has made ornamental coverings for herself, "" Silk and purple [are] her clothing. Young's Literal Translation Ornamental coverings she hath made for herself, Silk and purple are her clothing. Smith's Literal Translation She made for herself coverings; byssus and purple her clothing. Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleShe hath made for herself clothing of tapestry: fine linen, and purple is her covering. Catholic Public Domain Version She has made embroidered clothing for herself. Fine linen and purple is her garment. New American Bible She makes her own coverlets; fine linen and purple are her clothing. New Revised Standard Version She makes herself coverings; her clothing is fine linen and purple. Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleShe makes herself a covering of tapestry; her clothing is silk and purple. Peshitta Holy Bible Translated She has made a carpet for herself and a robe of fine white linen and of purple. OT Translations JPS Tanakh 1917She maketh for herself coverlets; Her clothing is fine linen and purple. Brenton Septuagint Translation She makes for her husband clothes of double texture, and garments for herself of fine linen and scarlet. Additional Translations ... Audio Bible Context The Virtues of a Noble Woman…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. 23Her husband is known at the city gate, where he sits among the elders of the land.… Cross References 1 Timothy 2:9 Likewise, I want the women to adorn themselves with respectable apparel, with modesty, and with self-control, not with braided hair or gold or pearls or expensive clothes, 1 Peter 3:3-4 Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as braided hair or gold jewelry or fine clothes, / but from the inner disposition of your heart, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in God’s sight. Isaiah 3:16-24 The LORD also says: “Because the daughters of Zion are haughty—walking with heads held high and wanton eyes, prancing and skipping as they go, jingling the bracelets on their ankles— / the Lord will bring sores on the heads of the daughters of Zion, and the LORD will make their foreheads bare.” / In that day the Lord will take away their finery: their anklets and headbands and crescents; ... 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. Ezekiel 16:10-13 I clothed you in embroidered cloth and gave you sandals of fine leather. I wrapped you in fine linen and covered you with silk. / I adorned you with jewelry, and I put bracelets on your wrists and a chain around your neck. / I put a ring in your nose, earrings on your ears, and a beautiful crown upon your head. ... Luke 16:19 Now there was a rich man dressed in purple and fine linen, who lived each day in joyous splendor. Revelation 19:8 She was given clothing of fine linen, bright and pure.” For the fine linen she wears is the righteous acts of the saints. Genesis 41:42 Then Pharaoh removed the signet ring from his finger, put it on Joseph’s finger, clothed him in garments of fine linen, and placed a gold chain around his neck. Matthew 6:29 Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his glory was adorned like one of these. 1 Kings 10:4-5 When the queen of Sheba saw all the wisdom of Solomon, the palace he had built, / the food at his table, the seating of his servants, the service and attire of his attendants, his cupbearers, and the burnt offerings he presented at the house of the LORD, it took her breath away. Song of Solomon 1:5-6 I am dark, yet lovely, O daughters of Jerusalem, like the tents of Kedar, like the curtains of Solomon. / Do not stare because I am dark, for the sun has gazed upon me. My mother’s sons were angry with me; they made me a keeper of the vineyards, but my own vineyard I have neglected. Song of Solomon 4:3-4 Your lips are like a scarlet ribbon, and your mouth is lovely. Your brow behind your veil is like a slice of pomegranate. / Your neck is like the tower of David, built with rows of stones; on it hang a thousand shields, all of them shields of warriors. Acts 16:14 Among those listening was a woman named Lydia, a dealer in purple cloth from the city of Thyatira, who was a worshiper of God. The Lord opened her heart to respond to Paul’s message. Exodus 28:5-8 They shall use gold, along with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn, and fine linen. / They are to make the ephod of finely spun linen embroidered with gold, and with blue, purple, and scarlet yarn. / It shall have two shoulder pieces attached at two of its corners, so it can be fastened. ... Judges 5:30 ‘Are they not finding and dividing the spoil—a girl or two for each warrior, a plunder of dyed garments for Sisera, the spoil of embroidered garments for the neck of the looter?’ Treasury of Scripture She makes herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing is silk and purple. coverings Proverbs 7:16 I have decked my bed with coverings of tapestry, with carved works, with fine linen of Egypt. clothing Genesis 41:42 And Pharaoh took off his ring from his hand, and put it upon Joseph's hand, and arrayed him in vestures of fine linen, and put a gold chain about his neck; Esther 5:1 Now it came to pass on the third day, that Esther put on her royal apparel, and stood in the inner court of the king's house, over against the king's house: and the king sat upon his royal throne in the royal house, over against the gate of the house. Esther 8:15 And Mordecai went out from the presence of the king in royal apparel of blue and white, and with a great crown of gold, and with a garment of fine linen and purple: and the city of Shushan rejoiced and was glad. silk Exodus 39:27 And they made coats of fine linen of woven work for Aaron, and for his sons, Jump to Previous Bed Byssus Carpets Clothed Clothing Coverings Coverlets Cushions Fair Fine Herself Linen Makes Maketh Needlework Ornamental Purple Silk TapestryJump to Next Bed Byssus Carpets Clothed Clothing Coverings Coverlets Cushions Fair Fine Herself Linen Makes Maketh Needlework Ornamental Purple Silk TapestryProverbs 31 1. Lemuel's lesson of chastity and temperance6. The afflicted are to be comforted and defended 10. The praise and properties of a good wife She makes coverings for her bed; This phrase highlights the industrious and resourceful nature of the virtuous woman. In biblical times, making bed coverings was a task that required skill and diligence, reflecting her commitment to providing for her household. The coverings could include blankets, quilts, or tapestries, often crafted from wool or linen. This act of making bed coverings signifies care and attention to the comfort and well-being of her family. It also suggests a sense of order and beauty within the home, aligning with the biblical principle of stewardship and the importance of managing one's household effectively (Proverbs 14:1). her clothing is fine linen and purple. Persons / Places / Events 1. The Virtuous WomanThe subject of Proverbs 31, often referred to as the "Proverbs 31 Woman," is an idealized figure representing wisdom, diligence, and virtue. She embodies the qualities that are esteemed in a godly woman. 2. King Lemuel The chapter is introduced as the sayings of King Lemuel, which his mother taught him. This context suggests that the virtues described are those that a mother would want her son to seek in a wife. 3. Ancient Israel The cultural and historical backdrop of this passage is ancient Israel, where textiles and clothing were significant indicators of wealth and status. Teaching Points Diligence and SkillThe virtuous woman is industrious, using her skills to create beautiful and practical items for her household. This teaches the value of diligence and skill in managing one's home and resources. Symbolism of Clothing Her clothing of fine linen and purple symbolizes dignity, honor, and the value of presenting oneself with respect and care. It reflects her inner character and the esteem she holds in her community. Godly Stewardship The passage encourages believers to be good stewards of their resources, using their talents to provide for their families and contribute positively to their communities. Inner Beauty and Character While the passage mentions physical clothing, it ultimately points to the importance of inner beauty and character, which are the true adornments of a godly person. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1. What is the meaning of Proverbs 31:22?2. How does Proverbs 31:22 inspire us to value quality in our possessions? 3. What does "fine linen and purple" symbolize in Proverbs 31:22? 4. How can we apply Proverbs 31:22 to our daily stewardship of resources? 5. What other scriptures emphasize the importance of diligence and excellence in homemaking? 6. How can Proverbs 31:22 guide us in creating a welcoming home environment? 7. What does "fine linen and purple" symbolize in Proverbs 31:22? 8. How does Proverbs 31:22 reflect the cultural context of ancient Israel? 9. Why is clothing significant in the description of a virtuous woman in Proverbs 31? 10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Proverbs 31? 11. What fabrics are mentioned in the Bible? 12. What is the Bible's perspective on beauty? 13. Song of Solomon 7:5 – Is likening hair to royal purple historically or archaeologically supported in ancient Israel, and does it conflict with other scriptural cultural references? 14. What is the Most Holy Place? What Does Proverbs 31:22 Mean She makes coverings for her bed“ She makes coverings for her bed ” (Proverbs 31:22a) paints a picture of hands-on care: • The word “makes” shows personal engagement. She doesn’t merely purchase; she creates, echoing Proverbs 31:13, 19 where she “works willingly with her hands.” • “Coverings” implies durability and beauty, much like the skillful tapestries of Exodus 26:1. Her workmanship gives her family a place of rest and security (see Song of Songs 1:16). • Preparing the bedroom first reminds us that true hospitality starts at home; she ensures comfort for those under her roof (1 Timothy 5:10). • Her diligence is continual—verse 27 says, “She watches over the affairs of her household.” The bed coverings symbolize foresight and order. Her clothing is fine linen Verse 22 continues, “ her clothing is fine linen ”: • Fine linen was prized for quality and purity (Genesis 41:42). By wearing it, she reflects the excellence she brings to every task. • Fine linen in Scripture often signals righteousness and honor (Revelation 19:8). Her outward attire mirrors the inward virtue praised in Proverbs 31:25: “Strength and dignity are her clothing.” • She dresses respectably without falling into vanity; 1 Peter 3:3-4 reminds that true beauty is “the hidden person of the heart,” yet appropriate external care honors God and others. • Her investment in quality garments shows responsible stewardship of resources she has earned through her industrious life (Proverbs 31:18). …and purple The verse closes, “ and purple ”: • Purple dye was rare and costly (Judges 8:26), worn by kings and nobles (Daniel 5:29). Her ability to afford it signals God-given prosperity earned through hard work (Proverbs 31:16). • Purple also speaks of royalty; Mark 15:17 records the soldiers dressing Jesus in purple to mock His kingship, underscoring the color’s regal association. Her clothing quietly proclaims dignity without arrogance. • Acts 16:14 introduces Lydia, a “seller of purple,” showing the trade’s profitability. Likewise, the Proverbs 31 woman’s craftsmanship generates income, enabling such purchases. • The pairing of fine linen and purple illustrates balanced priorities—quality and beauty used to honor God, bless family, and serve community. summary Proverbs 31:22 spotlights a woman whose diligent hands create comfort, whose refined dress reflects inner virtue, and whose tasteful splendor testifies to diligent stewardship. Her home is cared for, her appearance dignified, and her resources wisely managed—all tangible expressions of a heart devoted to the Lord and to those He has placed in her care. Verse 22. - MEM. She maketh herself coverings of tapestry (marbaddim); as Proverbs 7:16 (where see note). Pillows for beds or cushions are meant, though the translators are not of one mind on the meaning. St. Jerome has, stragulatam vestem; Aquila and Theodotion, περιστρώματα, Symmachus, ἀμφιτάπους, "shaggy on both sides;" Septuagint, "She makes for her husband double garments (δισσὰς χλάινας)." Her clothing is silk and purple. שֵׁשׁ (shesh) is not "silk," but "white linen" (βύσσος, byssus) of very fine texture, and costly. Purple garments were brought from the Phoenician cities, and were highly esteemed (see Song of Solomon 3:10; Jeremiah 10:9). The wife dresses herself in a way becoming her station, avoiding the extremes of sordid simplicity and ostentatious luxury. "For my own part," says St. Francois de Sales, quoted by Lesetre, "I should wish any devout man or woman always to be the best dressed person in the company, but at the same time, the least fine and affected, and adorned, as it is said, with the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit. St. Louis said that every one ought to dress according to his position, so that good and sensible people should not be able to say you are overdressed, nor the younger under dressed" ('Vie Devot.,' 3:25). So the Church is clothed in fine linen, clean and white, even the righteousness which Christ bestows (Revelation 19:8), and invested in her Lord's royal robe, who hath made her children kings and priests unto God (Revelation 1:6; Revelation 5:10).Parallel Commentaries ... Hebrew She makesעָֽשְׂתָה־ (‘ā·śə·ṯāh-) Verb - Qal - Perfect - third person feminine singular Strong's 6213: To do, make coverings for her bed; מַרְבַדִּ֥ים (mar·ḇad·dîm) Noun - masculine plural Strong's 4765: A spread, coverlet her clothing לְבוּשָֽׁהּ׃ (lə·ḇū·šāh) Noun - masculine singular construct | third person feminine singular Strong's 3830: A garment, clothing, raiment is fine linen שֵׁ֖שׁ (šêš) Noun - masculine singular Strong's 8336: Bleached stuff, white linen, marble and purple. וְאַרְגָּמָ֣ן (wə·’ar·gā·mān) Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine singular Strong's 713: Purple, red-purple Links Proverbs 31:22 NIVProverbs 31:22 NLT Proverbs 31:22 ESV Proverbs 31:22 NASB Proverbs 31:22 KJV Proverbs 31:22 BibleApps.com Proverbs 31:22 Biblia Paralela Proverbs 31:22 Chinese Bible Proverbs 31:22 French Bible Proverbs 31:22 Catholic Bible OT Poetry: Proverbs 31:22 She makes for herself carpets of tapestry (Prov. Pro Pr) |
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