Strength and honor are her clothing
This phrase highlights the virtues of strength and honor as integral to the character of the woman described in Proverbs 31. In biblical context, clothing often symbolizes one's identity and status. Here, strength and honor are not just attributes but are as visible and defining as garments. Strength, in this context, refers to moral and spiritual fortitude, echoing the biblical call to be strong in the Lord (Ephesians 6:10). Honor suggests a life lived with integrity and respect, aligning with the wisdom literature's emphasis on living righteously (Proverbs 3:35). The imagery of clothing also connects to the New Testament exhortation to "put on" virtues like compassion and kindness (Colossians 3:12), suggesting that these qualities are essential to one's spiritual identity.

and she can laugh at the days to come
This phrase conveys a sense of confidence and peace regarding the future. In the cultural and historical context of ancient Israel, where uncertainty and hardship were common, the ability to face the future with joy and assurance was significant. This confidence is rooted in faith and trust in God's providence, reminiscent of Jesus' teaching in Matthew 6:34, where He instructs not to worry about tomorrow. The laughter here is not one of mockery but of joy and assurance, reflecting a deep-seated trust in God's plan and provision. This anticipatory joy can be seen as a type of the joy found in Christ, who, for the joy set before Him, endured the cross (Hebrews 12:2). The woman's ability to laugh at the future is a testament to her wisdom and faith, qualities that are celebrated throughout the book of Proverbs.

1. The Virtuous Woman
The subject of Proverbs 31, often referred to as the "Proverbs 31 Woman," is an idealized figure representing the qualities of a godly and virtuous woman. She embodies wisdom, strength, and dignity.

2. King Lemuel
The chapter is attributed to the words of King Lemuel, which he learned from his mother. It is a mother's advice to her son on the qualities of a virtuous wife.

3. Ancient Israel
The cultural and historical context of this passage is ancient Israel, where the roles and expectations of women were defined by societal norms and religious teachings.Clothed in Strength and Dignity
The Hebrew word for "strength" ('oz) implies might and power, suggesting that the virtuous woman is empowered by her faith and character.

"Dignity" (hadar) refers to honor and majesty, indicating that her worth is recognized and respected by others.

Confidence in the Future
The phrase "laughs at the days to come" signifies a confident and fearless outlook on the future, rooted in trust in God's provision and sovereignty.

Role Model for All Believers
While this passage specifically describes a woman, the principles of strength, dignity, and faith are applicable to all believers, encouraging them to live with integrity and confidence.

Spiritual Preparation
Just as the virtuous woman is prepared for the future, believers are called to be spiritually prepared, trusting in God's plan and equipping themselves with His Word.(25) Strength and honour are her clothing.--She never parts with them; they serve her, like clothing, for protection and ornament. (Comp. Psalm 104:1.)

And she shall rejoice in time to come.--Rather, smiles at the coming day; does not fear the future.

Verse 25. - AYIN. Strength and honour are her clothing (ver. 17); ἰσχὺν καὶ εὐπρέπειαν, Septuagint. She is invested with a moral force and dignity which arm her against care and worry; the power of a righteous purpose and strong will reveals itself in her carriage and demeanour. And thus equipped, she shall rejoice in time to come; or, she laugheth (Job 5:22; Job 39:7) at the future (Isaiah 30:8). She is not disquieted by any fear of what may happen, knowing in whom she trusts, and having done her duty to the utmost of her ability. The Greek and Latin versions seem to take the expression as referring to the day of death; thus the Vulgate, Ridebit in die novissimo; Septuagint, "She rejoices in the last days (ἐν ἡμέραις ἐσχάταις)." But it is best interpreted as above. The true servant of God is not afraid of any evil tidings, his heart being fixed, trusting in the Lord (Psalm 112:7).

Parallel Commentaries ...


Strength
עֹז־ (‘ōz-)
Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 5797: Strength, might

and honor
וְהָדָ֥ר (wə·hā·ḏār)
Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 1926: Magnificence, ornament, splendor

are her clothing,
לְבוּשָׁ֑הּ (lə·ḇū·šāh)
Noun - masculine singular construct | third person feminine singular
Strong's 3830: A garment, clothing, raiment

and she can laugh
וַ֝תִּשְׂחַ֗ק (wat·tiś·ḥaq)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Consecutive imperfect - third person feminine singular
Strong's 7832: To laugh, to play

at the days
לְי֣וֹם (lə·yō·wm)
Preposition-l | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 3117: A day

to come.
אַחֲרֽוֹן׃ (’a·ḥă·rō·wn)
Adjective - masculine singular
Strong's 314: Hinder, late, last, western


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OT Poetry: Proverbs 31:25 Strength and dignity are her clothing (Prov. Pro Pr)