A Proverbs 31 Woman: Part 2

In continuation of the study of the Proverbs 31, we will continue to explore the qualities of the virtous woman having last one identified where the narration comes from followed by an analysis of her qualities as a wife. Now we transition into the second quality that the Bible devotes a large amount of time for it is the role of the woman, as the home-maker. I feel the need to again give pause and explain that these studies are not intended to be patronizing or sexist, rather I am writing as I understand the material, agree or disagree however much you wish. Proverbs 31:13 "She looks for wool and flax and works with her hands in delight." The virtuous wife takes the time and care to prepare the clothing of the day for her loved ones as an act of service not out of requirement, but out of love she provides for her family. Proverbs 31:14 "She is like merchant ships; she brings her food from afar." The gathering of food, modern day grocery shopping, is indeed another errand required for a family to function, however, the simile to a merchant ship implies certain charatersitics about the way she performs this task. A merchant is the in the business of trade to profit themselves, therefore they must be very careful and precise about the material that they select to sell, else it be their ruin. It is with this same level of care that a wife provides for her family, in selecting the better options for consumption and preparation. Proverbs 31:15 "She rises also while it is still night and gives food to her household, and portions to her maidens." The opening part of this verse describes the love and care that a wife provides while nursing her young. For with infants, feeding during the night is a common part of life that cannot be neglected. The second portion of this verse discusses that she gives portions to her maidens. With servants their livelihood was entrusted to the master during Biblical times, and fell upon the wife to ensure that the servants portions were allocated to them. Not to mother them, but to ensure they were taken care of per their rank.