1. On the title of this, the sixth part of the book, see Introduction.
prophecy--(See on Pr 30:1).
2. What, my son?--that is, What shall I say? Repetitions
denote earnestness.
son of my womb--as our phrase, "my own son," a term
of special affection.
son of my vows--as one dedicated to God; so the word
"Lemuel" may mean.
3-9. Succinct but solemn warnings against vices to which
kings are peculiarly tempted, as carnal pleasures and oppressive and unrighteous
government are used to sustain sensual indulgence.
strength-- mental and bodily resources for health and comfort.
thy ways--or course of life.
to that . . . kings--literally, "to the
destroying of kings," avoid destructive pleasures (compare @Pr 5:9 7:22,27 Ho
4:11).
4, 5. Stimulants enfeeble reason, pervert the heart, and do
not suit rulers, who need clear and steady minds, and well-governed affections (compare @Pr 20:1 22:29).
pervert . . . afflicted--They give unrighteous
decisions against the poor.
6, 7. The proper use of such drinks is to restore tone to feeble bodies and depressed minds (compare @Ps 104:15).
8, 9. Open . . . cause--Plead for those who
cannot plead for themselves, as the orphan, stranger, &c. (compare @Ps 72:12 Isa 1:17).
appointed to destruction--who are otherwise ruined by their
oppressors (compare @Pr
29:14,16).
10-31. This exquisite picture of a truly lovely wife is
conceived and drawn in accordance with the customs of Eastern nations, but its moral
teachings suit all climes. In Hebrew the verses begin with the letters of the Hebrew
alphabet in order (compare Introduction
to Poetical Books).
Who . . . woman--The question implies that such are
rare, though not entirely wanting (compare @Pr 18:22 19:14).
virtuous--literally, "of strength," that is, moral
courage (compare @Pr
12:4 Ru 3:11).
her price, &c.--(compare @Pr 3:15).
11. heart . . . trust in her--He relies on her
prudence and skill.
no need of spoil--does not lack profit or gain, especially,
that obtained by the risk of war.
12. do . . . good--contribute good to him.
13, 14. Ancient women of rank thus wrought with their hands; and such, indeed, were the customs of Western women a few centuries since. In the East also, the fabrics were articles of merchandise.
15. She diligently attends to expending as well as gathering wealth;
16. and hence has means to purchase property.
17, 18. To energy she adds a watchfulness in bargains, and a protracted and painful industry. The last clause may figuratively denote that her prosperity (compare @Pr 24:20) is not short lived.
19. No work, however mean, if honest, is disdained.
20. Industry enables her to be charitable.
21. scarlet--or, "purple," by reason of the dyes used, the best fabrics; as a matter of taste also; the color suits cold.
22. coverings of tapestry--or, "coverlets," that
is, for beds.
silk--or, "linen" (compare @Ex 26:1 27:9)
and purple--that is, the most costly goods.
23. in the gates--(compare @Pr 22:22). His domestic comfort promotes his advancement in public dignity.
24. fine linen--or, "linen shirts," or the
material for them.
girdles--were often costly and highly valued (@2Sa 18:11).
delivereth--or, "giveth as a present" or "to
sell."
25. Strength and honour--Strong and beautiful
is her clothing; or, figuratively, for moral character, vigorous and honorable.
shall rejoice . . . come--in confidence of certain
maintenance.
26. Her conversation is wise and gentle.
27. (Compare @1Ti 5:14 Tit 2:5). She adds to her example a wise management of those under her control.
28. She is honored by those who best know her.
29. The words are those of her husband, praising her.
virtuously--(Compare @Pr 31:10).
30. Favour--or, "Grace" of personal manner.
beauty--of face, or form (compare @Pr 11:22). True piety alone
commands permanent respect and affection (@1Pe 3:3).
31. The result of her labor is her best eulogy. Nothing can add to the simple beauty of this admirable portrait. On the measure of its realization in the daughters of our own day rest untold results, in the domestic, and, therefore, the civil and religious, welfare of the people.