Proverbs 31:17 kjv

She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms.

Proverbs 31:17 nkjv

She girds herself with strength, And strengthens her arms.

Proverbs 31:17 niv

She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks.

Proverbs 31:17 esv

She dresses herself with strength and makes her arms strong.

Proverbs 31:17 nlt

She is energetic and strong,
a hard worker.

Proverbs 31 verses

Proverbs 31 17 Meaning

Proverbs 31:17 describes the "excellent wife" as one who actively prepares herself for exertion and toil, both physically and with an internal resolve, ensuring that her capacity for work is robust and her actions effective. This verse highlights her industriousness, resilience, and readiness to engage in demanding tasks for the welfare of her household. It signifies her practical strength and self-discipline, not merely inherent power, but an cultivated vigor that enables productive labor.

Proverbs 31 17 Context

Proverbs 31:17 is part of an acrostic poem (verses 10-31) often referred to as "The Wife of Noble Character" or "The Virtuous Woman." This extended passage serves as the concluding testament to wisdom in the book of Proverbs, personified through the qualities and actions of an ideal woman. Unlike earlier proverbs which might be succinct warnings or instructions, this section paints a holistic picture of diligence, wisdom, generosity, strength, and fear of the Lord as applied to daily life within a household and community. The woman described is an exemplar, not of idleness or leisure, but of active and effective stewardship over her domestic and commercial affairs, all stemming from an inner character of godliness. Verse 17 specifically zeroes in on her physical and mental readiness for the demanding aspects of her roles in ancient Israelite society, where household management required considerable physical labor, resourcefulness, and unwavering commitment. Her strength is not for show, but for purposeful work, providing for her family.

Proverbs 31 17 Word analysis

• She girds herself (חָגְרָה – khagrah):
  • Hebrew for "to gird," "to bind," "to tie on."
  • Significance: In ancient times, people wore long, loose garments. To work or prepare for strenuous activity (like running, farming, or battle), one would "gird up" their loins (i.e., pull up their outer garment and tuck it into their belt or tie it, making it more compact and less cumbersome). This literally translates to active preparation, readiness for effort, and removal of impediments.
  • Connotation: It implies intentionality, discipline, and a mindset of readiness for labor rather than passivity. It's an act of deliberate preparation and self-empowerment.
• with strength (עֹז – 'oz):
  • Hebrew term encompassing not just physical might but also firmness, might, vigor, boldness, and security.
  • Significance: The strength here is multifaceted. It's physical endurance for daily tasks, but also mental fortitude, resilience, and an inner vigor. It refers to a deep, abiding capability.
  • Connection: This strength can be both natural and divinely given, especially when understood in the context of the fear of the Lord (Prov 31:30).
• her arms (זְרֹעוֹתֶיהָ – z'ro'oteha):
  • Hebrew for "arms" or "forearms."
  • Significance: The arms are the instruments of work and execution. This directly refers to her physical capacity and the practical application of her strength. They are not idle, but actively engaged.
  • Figurative use: "Arms" can also metaphorically represent power or capacity in a broader sense (e.g., God's strong arm). Here, it focuses on her own capacity to act.
• are strong (אִמֵּץ – 'immets):
  • Hebrew verb meaning "to strengthen," "to make firm," "to harden." It implies active reinforcement or establishment.
  • Significance: This is not just inherent strength but implies an active process of becoming strong, perhaps through exercise or diligent practice. It indicates vigor, resilience, and robustness developed through consistent application. Her arms are made strong or strengthened, rather than merely being strong, emphasizing effort and growth.
• "She girds herself with strength": This phrase beautifully intertwines action and character. It means she doesn't just possess strength, but she intentionally clothes herself in it, she chooses and applies vigor and resolve. It speaks of a self-possessed discipline where her inner fortitude is expressed in her readiness for action. It highlights her proactive choice to face challenges with robust determination, making her inner power an external reality.
• "her arms are strong": This is the direct result or manifestation of the first clause. Because she actively cultivates strength and readies herself for work, her physical instruments of labor—her arms—are robust, capable, and fit for the demanding tasks. It implies consistent hard work that builds muscle and stamina, making her effective and efficient in her household management and entrepreneurial ventures. This strength allows her to perform diverse tasks, from spinning wool to managing fields (Prov 31:13-16).

Proverbs 31 17 Bonus section

The concept of "girding oneself" is a profound biblical metaphor found in both Old and New Testaments. Spiritually, it encourages believers to prepare for action in their service to God (e.g., "gird your minds for action," 1 Pet 1:13). It symbolizes not being lax or unprepared, but being alert, disciplined, and ready for spiritual battle or diligent service. The Proverbs 31 woman's physical diligence thus mirrors a spiritual readiness and intentionality. Her strength is not only for domestic benefit but implicitly contributes to the well-being of the wider community (Prov 31:20), embodying active compassion and practical love. This holistic portrayal counters any notion that women in biblical times were confined to a fragile or purely decorative existence; rather, it elevates active, productive, and morally upright character.

Proverbs 31 17 Commentary

Proverbs 31:17 portrays the excellent woman not as passively strong, but as actively engaging her vigor and readiness for the tasks at hand. "She girds herself with strength" signifies her intentional choice and discipline to prepare for hard work. This isn't merely physical, but a mental and moral fortitude that equips her for daily demands. In ancient cultures, "girding oneself" was the act of tucking up long robes to free oneself for vigorous activity, embodying readiness and commitment. This action underscores her proactivity; she doesn't wait for strength but takes hold of it. Consequently, "her arms are strong" denotes the physical manifestation of her cultivated vigor and consistent labor. This strength is not simply an attribute, but a capability developed through purposeful application. She is industrious and diligent, capable of effectively managing the affairs of her home and enterprise, serving her family with practical and robust ability. The verse illustrates a life lived with intentional exertion and physical preparedness, showing the fruits of diligence and inner resolve for productive, God-honoring labor.Examples of practical usage: A believer facing a demanding period in their life might metaphorically "gird themselves with strength" by engaging in spiritual disciplines (prayer, scripture study) and trusting in God for the physical and mental stamina needed. A student preparing for an important exam might "gird" by diligently reviewing material and developing robust study habits, ensuring their mental "arms" are strong.