The Virtuous Woman

The Virtuous Woman

“Who can find a virtuous wife? For her worth is far above rubies.

“The heart of her husband safely trusts her; so he will have no lack of gain.

“She does him good and not evil all the days of her life.

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

“She is like the merchant ships, she brings her food from afar.

“She also rises while it is yet night, and provides food for her household and a portion for her maidservants.

“She considers a field and buys it; from her profits she plants a vineyard.

“She girds herself with strength, and strengthens her arms.

“She perceives that her merchandise is good, and her lamp does not go out by night.

“She stretches out her hands to the distaff, and her hand holds the spindle.

“She extends her hand to the poor, yes she reaches out her hands to the needy.

“She is not afraid of snow for her household is clothed with scarlet.

“She makes tapestry for herself; her clothing is the fine linen and purple.

“Her husband is known in the gates, when he sits among elders of the land.

“She makes linen garments and sells them, and supplies sashes for the merchants.

“Strength and honour are her clothing; she shall rejoice in time to come.

“She opens her mouth with wisdom, and on her tongue is the law of kindness.

“She watches over the ways of her household, and does not eat the bread of idleness.

“Her children rise up and call her blessed.”  (Proverbs 31 v 10-28)