Proverbs 31:1 (KJV)

What does Proverbs 31:1 mean?

Proverbs 31:1 introduces a set of teachings that King Lemuel received from his mother, describing these teachings as a "prophecy" or inspired message. The verse sets the stage for the following sayings by making clear that they come from a mother’s instruction to her son, who is a king.

This verse marks the beginning of a new section in the book of Proverbs, shifting the speaker to King Lemuel and highlighting the importance of wisdom passed down from parent to child. The mention of Lemuel’s mother as the source of this wisdom emphasizes the value placed on a mother’s guidance and the significance of her words for someone in a position of leadership.

The Hebrew behind Proverbs 31:1

• דִּבְרֵי (divrei, "words"): This word means "words" or "sayings," highlighting that what follows is a collection of spoken teachings, not just a single statement.
• לְמוּאֵל (Lemuel): The name Lemuel means "belonging to God" or "for God," which may suggest that the king’s identity is closely tied to his relationship with God, adding weight to the teachings he receives.
• מַשָּׂא (massa, "prophecy"): This word is often used for a burden, oracle, or inspired utterance, suggesting that the teachings are not just advice but carry a sense of divine or moral responsibility.
• יָסְרָה (yasrah, "taught"): This verb means "she taught" or "she instructed," emphasizing the active role of Lemuel’s mother in shaping his understanding and character.

Why Proverbs 31:1 matters

• Proverbs 31:1 clarifies that the wisdom in the following verses is not Solomon’s but comes from another king, Lemuel, and specifically from his mother, showing the diversity of voices in Proverbs.
• The verse highlights the significance of a mother’s influence, especially in the life of someone destined for leadership, countering the idea that wisdom only comes from fathers or male teachers.
• By calling the teaching a "prophecy" or "oracle," the verse elevates the mother’s words to a level of serious, even sacred, instruction, preparing the reader to pay close attention to what follows.