Proverbs 31:10-31

QUESTION:

I heard that the first letter of each verse (10-31) is an acronym in Hebrew. If so, what does it say/mean? (I've attempted online translations with no luck.) Secondly, how can this passage apply not only to married women, but all women, and how should men approach/respond to the same?

RESPONSE:

Proverbs 31:10 – 31 is a piece of Hebrew prose written in an alphabetical acrostic form. This means that the first word of each line begins with each letter of the Hebrew alphabet in alphabetical order. Many times in Hebrew poetry this was a device used to aid one’s memory in learning and memorizing. It is therefore not a “secret code” within Scripture with hidden meaning, but rather something beautiful and artistic that has been lost in the midst of time and translations. The good news is that we 21st century English speakers can still learn from this, being that this passage was set apart to a degree to carry an important and timeless message about the qualities and character of godly women.

Throughout this passage, the woman of Proverbs 31:10 – 31 is described as an incredible benefit to her husband (v. 11 – 12, 21, 23), family (v. 15; 27 – 28), and others (v. 20). This is a result of her character (v. 10) and wisdom (v. 26) that are rooted in her faith and obedience to the Lord (v. 29 – 30). This example of a hard working woman of faith (v. 17, 26) is worth the attention of both single and married woman, for according to Scripture, a woman exhibiting such traits is to be praised (v. 31).

For men, the lesson seems to be one of singular focus: The wisdom and character of a godly woman is far greater than her outward beauty (v. 30). Such a companion in life is rare and beyond any value that can be assessed (v. 10). Such a woman will build him up (v. 23) and make him better, and he will have great comfort and trust in this relationship (v. 11 – 12). Men, therefore, should honor and seek a woman who exhibits these emblems of high spiritual value above all else (v. 10, 30).

Finally, the acrostic form of this passage is a good indication that it is well worth studying and even memorizing. Women who strive to reflect the woman in this passage are praised for their immeasurable value and strength (v. 28, 31). Men who evaluate a woman’s beauty based on such standards find themselves benefitting from a life focused on virtue and not simply what is pleasing to the eyes (v. 30). These universal and timeless applications have made this passage well known and wisely studied for generations.