Proverbs 31:1 kjv

The words of king Lemuel, the prophecy that his mother taught him.

Proverbs 31:1 nkjv

The words of King Lemuel, the utterance which his mother taught him:

Proverbs 31:1 niv

The sayings of King Lemuel?an inspired utterance his mother taught him.

Proverbs 31:1 esv

The words of King Lemuel. An oracle that his mother taught him:

Proverbs 31:1 nlt

The sayings of King Lemuel contain this message, which his mother taught him.

Proverbs 31 verses

Proverbs 31 1 Meaning

Proverbs 31:1 introduces the sage advice given to King Lemuel, emphasizing that these are not merely ordinary words, but a profound "utterance" or "oracle" that his mother carefully imparted to him. This verse highlights the profound and authoritative nature of the counsel, rooted in maternal wisdom and intended to shape a just and righteous king.

Proverbs 31 1 Context

Proverbs 31 begins a distinct appendix to the book of Proverbs, shifting from the general wisdom sayings to specific counsel directed at a king. This chapter is divided into two main parts: verses 1-9, which are the mother's counsel to King Lemuel concerning wise rulership, and verses 10-31, an acrostic poem praising the "excellent wife." The immediate context of verse 1 is its function as an introduction, framing the subsequent advice on justice, temperance, and caring for the afflicted. Historically, royal education in the Ancient Near East was crucial for succession and stability. The unique aspect here is the mother's prominent role in delivering such weighty counsel, suggesting a familial, morally grounded source of wisdom, possibly countering typical court intrigues or self-serving advice given to kings.

Proverbs 31 1 Word analysis

• The words: (Heb. Divrei, דִּבְרֵי) - Denotes significant speech, specific pronouncements, or teachings, more than mere casual talk. It indicates the content is intended for instruction and deep consideration.
• of King Lemuel: (Heb. Melech L'mu'el, מֶלֶךְ לְמוּאֵל) - "Lemuel" likely means "belonging to God" or "dedicated to God." While some identify him with Solomon, this name emphasizes that the king should recognize his divine accountability and dedicate his rule to God's principles. His royal title underscores the gravity and public import of the forthcoming counsel.
• the utterance: (Heb. Massa', מַשָּׂא) - This word is highly significant. Massa' literally means "burden," but in prophetic contexts, it refers to a divine oracle or a prophetic pronouncement (e.g., in books like Nahum, Habakkuk, Zechariah, Malachi). Its usage here elevates the mother's teaching to the status of a divinely inspired, authoritative, and weighty message, implying it carries divine imperative and is not mere human advice. It suggests a message that weighs on the hearer, requiring deep consideration and adherence.
• which his mother: (Heb. Immo, אִמּוֹ) - Highlights the source of the wisdom. In many ancient cultures, mothers played a crucial role in shaping a child’s character. For a king, his mother’s direct, ethical instruction stands out against typical political tutelage, emphasizing the value of personal, intimate moral education within the family unit as foundational for good governance.
• taught him: (Heb. Yisserattu, יִסְּרַתּוּ) - Implies more than simple instruction. The root yasar (יָסַר) suggests discipline, correction, and training. It’s an active, ongoing process of shaping character and imparting wisdom, often through rebuke or strong admonition, fitting for preparing a ruler to act justly.

• "The words...the utterance": This phrasing elevates the counsel beyond mere advice to a prophetic oracles-like authority. It is not just casual talk but a solemn and weighty divine truth to be received and applied. The repetition and intensification imply these words are meant to profoundly influence and guide King Lemuel's reign.
• "King Lemuel...his mother taught him": This phrase highlights the critical role of familial influence, specifically maternal guidance, in shaping leadership. It suggests that true wisdom for governance is not merely found in royal decrees or political strategies but is cultivated through foundational moral training from a trusted, intimate source like a mother. This underscores the domestic sphere's crucial role in fostering righteous leadership.

Proverbs 31 1 Bonus section

The anonymous nature of King Lemuel and his mother further universalizes the message; it applies not just to one historical king but to any leader, or indeed any individual, called to righteous living and responsible influence. The focus on maternal instruction for a king might subtly challenge prevailing patriarchal norms, emphasizing the profound and authoritative wisdom a woman can possess and transmit. This introduction prepares the reader for advice that is both authoritative (as an "utterance") and deeply personal, speaking to the heart and conscience of a leader rather than merely outlining policies. The emphasis on ethical behavior for a king, taught through personal discipline, directly contrasts with the often self-serving political maneuvers prevalent in many royal courts, highlighting a distinct, God-centric view of leadership.

Proverbs 31 1 Commentary

Proverbs 31:1 sets a unique stage, presenting royal wisdom not from a seasoned court sage or a prophet to the masses, but from a king's mother directly to her son. The designation "utterance" (massa') elevates these words from simple maternal advice to a solemn, divinely weighty admonition, demanding the king's utmost attention and adherence. This highlights that godly wisdom for governance often originates from unexpected sources and emphasizes the foundational role of the family in shaping character. The verse introduces a royal ethical code deeply rooted in personal integrity and compassionate leadership, a testament to how even the most powerful are accountable to timeless moral principles.