Chapter 31

01

The words of King Lemuel, the oracle which his mother taught him:

02

What, O my son? and what, O son of my womb? and what, O son of my vows?

03

Do not give your strength to women, or your ways to that which destroys kings.

05

For they will drink and forget what is decreed, and pervert the rights of all the afflicted.

06

Give strong drink to him who is perishing, and wine to him whose life is bitter.

07

Let him drink and forget his poverty and remember his trouble no more.

08

Open your mouth for the mute, for the rights of all the unfortunate.

11

The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain.

13

She looks for wool and flax and works with her hands in delight.

14

She is like merchant ships; she brings her food from afar.

15

She rises also while it is still night and gives food to her household and portions to her maidens.

16

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

17

She girds herself with strength and makes her arms strong.

19

She stretches out her hands to the distaff, and her hands grasp the spindle.

20

She extends her hand to the poor, and she stretches out her hands to the needy.

21

She is not afraid of the snow for her household, for all her household are clothed with scarlet.

22

She makes coverings for herself; her clothing is fine linen and purple.

24

She makes linen garments and sells them, and supplies belts to the tradesmen.

27

She looks well to the ways of her household, and does not eat the bread of idleness.

28

Her children rise up and bless her; her husband also, and he praises her, saying:

29

“Many daughters have done nobly, but you excel them all.”