Proverbs 31 is one of the most well-known and beloved passages in the Bible, often read in the context of godly womanhood, marriage, and virtuous living. It paints a picture of a woman whose life is marked by wisdom, diligence, kindness, and the fear of the Lord. But this chapter is more than just a checklist for women—it is a guide for both men and women on living a life that honors God.
This study will explore who wrote Proverbs 31, the intended audience, the wisdom it contains, and how it describes a godly woman.
Who Wrote Proverbs 31?
The author of Proverbs 31:1-9 is identified as King Lemuel, a ruler about whom little is known. His name means “belonging to God”, but Scripture does not tell us which kingdom he ruled. Some scholars suggest that Lemuel could be a poetic name for Solomon, while others believe he was a foreign king who had learned of Israel’s wisdom traditions.
What is unique about this chapter is that it is not the words of Lemuel himself, but the teachings of his mother:
“The words of King Lemuel, the utterance which his mother taught him.” (Proverbs 31:1)
This passage records a mother’s wisdom to her son, a future king, instructing him on how to rule with justice, avoid immorality, and find a virtuous wife.
The rest of the chapter, Proverbs 31:10-31, is often called “The Virtuous Woman” or “The Wife of Noble Character.” It is written as an acrostic poem, with each verse beginning with a different letter of the Hebrew alphabet. This poetic style was likely used to make it easy to memorize—a passage that would shape the next generation of godly women and godly men who seek them.
Who Was Proverbs 31 Written To?
Proverbs 31 was originally written to young men, particularly future kings, teaching them the value of wisdom, self-control, and godly leadership.
In the first nine verses, Lemuel’s mother warns him against:
Immorality with women, which has ruined many kings (Proverbs 31:3)
Drunkenness, which leads to poor judgment (Proverbs 31:4-5)
Neglecting justice, especially for the poor and needy (Proverbs 31:8-9)
This is critical advice for any leader—stay pure, stay sober, and stand for righteousness.
The second half of the chapter, from Proverbs 31:10-31, is often read as an instruction for women, but it was originally advice to men—helping them recognize and value a truly godly woman. It teaches that outward beauty fades, but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised (Proverbs 31:30).
While written to young men, this passage also serves as a model for women who seek to live a life that pleases the Lord.
The Advice Given: The Virtuous Woman (Proverbs 31:10-31)
This section describes a wife of noble character, a woman whose godliness, wisdom, and diligence make her invaluable. The opening verse sets the tone:
“Who can find a virtuous wife? For her worth is far above rubies.” (Proverbs 31:10)
The word “virtuous” (Hebrew: chayil) means strength, valor, and excellence. This is a woman of strong character, not weak or passive. She is wise, hardworking, generous, and above all, devoted to the Lord.
The passage describes her in three key ways:
A Woman of Diligence and Industry
She is not idle or lazy but works with willing hands to provide for her household:
“She seeks wool and flax, and willingly works with her hands. She is like the merchant ships, she brings her food from afar.” (Proverbs 31:13-14)
She rises early and ensures her family is well cared for:
“She also rises while it is yet night, and provides food for her household, and a portion for her maidservants.” (Proverbs 31:15)
She is resourceful and financially wise, making smart investments:
“She considers a field and buys it; from her profits she plants a vineyard.” (Proverbs 31:16)
This woman is not dependent on others for success—she is self-motivated, strategic, and works hard for the good of her home.
A Woman of Strength and Compassion
The Proverbs 31 woman is both strong and compassionate. She is not afraid of hard work, and her diligence results in prosperity for her family:
“She girds herself with strength, and strengthens her arms.” (Proverbs 31:17)
She also cares for the poor and needy:
“She extends her hand to the poor, yes, she reaches out her hands to the needy.” (Proverbs 31:20)
She is prepared for hard times and does not fear the future:
“She is not afraid of snow for her household, for all her household is clothed with scarlet.” (Proverbs 31:21)
This speaks of a woman who trusts in God, making wise preparations but never walking in fear.
A Woman of Wisdom and Godliness
Her wisdom is evident in how she speaks and carries herself:
“She opens her mouth with wisdom, and on her tongue is the law of kindness.” (Proverbs 31:26)
She is respected by her husband and children, not because of beauty or charm, but because of her character:
“Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her.” (Proverbs 31:28)
Her focus is not on outward beauty but on fearing the Lord:
“Charm is deceitful and beauty is passing, but a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised.” (Proverbs 31:30)
The world values looks, status, and wealth, but Proverbs 31 values godliness, wisdom, and inner strength.
How This Describes a Godly Woman
The Proverbs 31 woman is not perfect, but she is faithful. She seeks to honor God in her home, work, relationships, and speech. Her diligence and wisdom show that godliness is not about passivity but about working hard, stewarding resources wisely, and speaking truth with kindness. Her compassion and generosity remind us that true success is not about personal gain but about serving others. Above all, she fears the Lord—her reverence for God is the foundation of her strength, wisdom, and confidence.
This is the kind of woman every man should seek and every woman should strive to be.
My Final Thoughts
Many women read Proverbs 31 and feel overwhelmed. But this passage is not a list of impossible standards—it is a vision of what godly character looks like. This passage is not just for wives and mothers—it is for every woman seeking to live wisely before God.
A Proverbs 31 woman is:
A woman who loves the Lord and seeks to serve Him in all areas of life.
A woman who is strong, wise, diligent, and compassionate.
A woman whose true beauty is found in her fear of the Lord.
Men, honor and value women like this. Women, strive to be a light in this dark world, reflecting the wisdom, strength, and kindness of Christ. And remember—true virtue comes from walking closely with God.
