Question 1

What does Proverbs 31:24 mean?

Accepted Answer

Proverbs 31:24 describes a woman who makes fine linen garments and sells them, and also provides belts or sashes to merchants. This verse highlights her skill in producing valuable goods and her active role in trade and business. The verse is part of a passage where King Lemuel’s mother describes the “virtuous woman.” Here, she is pictured as industrious and entrepreneurial, not only managing her household but also engaging with the wider marketplace. The mention of both linen and girdles shows she creates items that are both practical and desirable for trade.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind Proverbs 31:24

Accepted Answer

Fine linen (פִּשְׁתִּים, pishtim): This word refers to linen, a valuable textile in the ancient world. Its mention shows the woman works with high-quality materials, suggesting both skill and access to good resources. Girdles (חֲגוֹר, chagor): This term means belts or sashes, which were important clothing accessories. Supplying these to merchants (כְּנַעֲנִי, kena‘ani) points to her products being in demand beyond her own household. Merchant (כְּנַעֲנִי, kena‘ani): While this word literally means “Canaanite,” it was commonly used for traders or merchants. The verse shows her interacting with professional traders, indicating her business acumen.

Question 3

Why Proverbs 31:24 matters

Accepted Answer

Proverbs 31:24 clears up the idea that ancient women were only involved in domestic tasks; it shows that the “virtuous woman” is also a businesswoman who produces and sells goods. The verse emphasizes the value of skilled work and initiative, connecting her household management to broader economic activity. This detail fits into the larger portrait of the Proverbs 31 woman as capable, resourceful, and respected both at home and in the community.

Proverbs 31:24 (KJV)