PROVERBS CHAPTER 31.
Proverbs for Lemuel, which his Mother Taught Him
THE ABCs OF THE VIRTUOUS WOMAN. — V. 15. She riseth also while it is yet night, she is up and at her work before daylight, and giveth meat to her household, distributing food to all its members, for an early breakfast, and a portion to her maidens, so that the meals are ready at a certain time and no time is lost.
V. 16. She considereth a field, carefully contemplating its worth for purchase, and buyeth it, since her thrift has enabled her to lay aside the purchase money, with the fruit of her hands, with the money she has earned by her own labor, she planteth a vineyard, investing her money wisely.
V. 17. She girdeth her loins with strength, showing vigor in every undertaking, and strengtheneth her arms, both her diligence and the energy displayed by her increasing continually.
V. 18. She perceiveth that her merchandise is good, she is aware that her gain is regular, a fact which spurs her on to renewed effort; her candle goeth not out by night, if necessary she will work far into the night in order to accomplish her purpose.
V. 19. She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff, she uses the spinning-wheel in the proper and effective manner, she lacks neither the skill nor the willingness to work with her own hands. At the same time, it is not selfishness or avarice which inspires the virtuous woman.