Proverbs 31:13 kjv

She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands.

Proverbs 31:13 nkjv

She seeks wool and flax, And willingly works with her hands.

Proverbs 31:13 niv

She selects wool and flax and works with eager hands.

Proverbs 31:13 esv

She seeks wool and flax, and works with willing hands.

Proverbs 31:13 nlt

She finds wool and flax
and busily spins it.

Proverbs 31 verses

Proverbs 31 13 Meaning

Proverbs 31:13 describes a discerning and industrious wife who actively procures suitable raw materials like wool and flax. Her labor is not born out of necessity or begrudgingly, but rather performed with joyful and willing hands, reflecting her diligent character and proactive approach to managing and providing for her household. This verse highlights her foundational contribution through textile production, demonstrating her practical wisdom and commitment.

Proverbs 31 13 Context

Proverbs chapter 31 is primarily composed of the words taught to King Lemuel by his mother, describing the qualities of an ideal king (Pro 31:1-9) and, famously, the virtues of an "excellent wife" or "virtuous woman" (Pro 31:10-31). This latter section is an acrostic poem, where each verse begins with a successive letter of the Hebrew alphabet, signifying a complete and perfect portrayal. Proverbs 31:13 marks the third trait described, immediately after establishing her immeasurable worth. The verses before and after this particular verse progressively illustrate her multifaceted diligence, managerial skill, wisdom, and compassionate character, beginning with her industrious nature in providing for the household's textile needs, which was a fundamental aspect of household economy in ancient Israel. The passage paints a picture of proactive, responsible living, counteracting the societal dangers of idleness and lack of foresight often warned against in the Proverbs.

Proverbs 31 13 Word analysis

• She seeks (דָּרְשָׁה - darashah): The root darash (דרש) means to search, seek, inquire, consult, or frequent. In this context, it implies an active, deliberate, and diligent pursuit, not a passive reception. It conveys initiative, intent, and thoroughness in her actions. This echoes seeking God (Deut 4:29; Ps 105:4), underscoring the spiritual diligence mirrored in her practical life. Her search for materials is careful and intentional, demonstrating wisdom in selecting the best.

• wool (צֶמֶר - tzemer): A basic, common, and essential raw material used for making clothes and coverings, especially for warmth. It signifies fundamental provision and practicality. Its use connects to the primary need for clothing and domestic warmth in ancient societies.

• and flax (וּפִשְׁתִּים - u'phishtim): Flax was used to make linen, often finer and sometimes more valuable than wool. Linen was used for priestly garments, finer clothing, and domestic textiles (curtains, etc.). Its inclusion suggests not only basic provision but also an attention to quality and perhaps the ability to produce more refined items, indicative of skilled craftsmanship and good management.

• and works with (וַתַּעַשׂ - va'ta'as): From the verb 'asah (עשה), meaning to make, do, accomplish, or work. It denotes action and productivity. The specific form here shows continuous or habitual action, portraying her ongoing engagement in productive labor.

• willing hands (בְּחֵפֶץ כַּפֶּיהָ - bechephetz kappeiha):

  • willing/desire/delight (בְּחֵפֶץ - bechephetz): The noun chephetz (חֵפֶץ) means desire, delight, pleasure, or purpose. This is a crucial element: her work is not done out of coercion or complaint, but from a genuine inner desire, enjoyment, and purpose. She finds satisfaction in her productive labor, contrasting sharply with the "sluggard."
  • her hands (כַּפֶּיהָ - kappeiha): Refers to her palms or hands, symbolizing the instrument of her labor. It emphasizes the manual nature of her work and her direct involvement. This indicates a hands-on, active approach, not delegation alone.

• Words-group Analysis:

  • "She seeks wool and flax": This phrase highlights her proactiveness and sourcing ability. She doesn't wait for things to come to her; she actively searches for and acquires the necessary resources. This also speaks to her financial acumen in selecting good, usable materials.
  • "and works with willing hands": This powerfully combines her practical labor with her internal disposition. The phrase denotes cheerful, purposeful, and diligent industry. Her "willingness" (chephetz) shows her internal motivation and joy in service, making her labor productive and a blessing. It contrasts with merely working out of obligation or grudgingly, transforming mere task-doing into a virtuous act of devotion and character. This attitude empowers her to achieve excellence in all her endeavors.

Proverbs 31 13 Bonus section

The "wool and flax" mentioned were fundamental to the Israelite economy and domestic self-sufficiency. A woman's skill in handling these raw materials for spinning, weaving, and sewing was highly valued, directly impacting her family's comfort and dignity (see Pro 31:21). This verse can be seen as an implicit polemic against idleness, emphasizing that a woman's true beauty and strength are manifest not just in her appearance but in her productive contribution and diligent spirit within her home and community. Her willing hands indicate a heart aligned with purposeful and God-honoring work, which is distinct from forced labor or reluctant obligation. It elevates mundane domestic tasks to a form of active, devoted stewardship, reflecting the biblical principle that all work, done heartily, is for the Lord (Col 3:23).

Proverbs 31 13 Commentary

Proverbs 31:13 sets the stage for the industrious character of the excellent wife. Her proactivity is key: she doesn't wait for resources but diligently "seeks" out suitable materials (wool and flax), which were vital for domestic production in ancient times. This implies forethought, good judgment in acquisition, and an understanding of her household's needs. More profoundly, her labor is not burdensome; she "works with willing hands," meaning her diligence stems from an inner desire, purpose, and even delight. This cheerfulness in her work distinguishes her as one whose excellence is rooted in her character, embracing her domestic responsibilities with earnest joy. It highlights that true industry is as much about one's attitude towards work as the work itself, showcasing self-initiated, joyful productivity.

Examples:

• A person who proactively seeks out nutritious ingredients for family meals rather than settling for less wholesome options.
• Someone who finds genuine satisfaction in maintaining their home, completing tasks with a joyful spirit rather than seeing them as chores.