She rises while it is still nightThis phrase highlights the diligence and industrious nature of the virtuous woman. Rising early was a common practice in ancient times, especially in agrarian societies where work began at dawn. This reflects her commitment and dedication to her family, mirroring the
Proverbs 31 woman's overall character. Biblically, rising early is often associated with seeking God and preparing for the day (
Psalm 5:3,
Mark 1:35). It signifies readiness and a proactive approach to responsibilities.
to provide food for her household
In the historical context, providing food was a crucial task, often involving grinding grain, baking bread, and preparing meals from scratch. This phrase underscores her role as a provider and caretaker, ensuring her family's needs are met. It also reflects the biblical principle of stewardship and care for one's family (1 Timothy 5:8). The act of providing food can be seen as a type of Christ, who provides spiritual nourishment to His followers (John 6:35).
and portions for her maidservants
This indicates her leadership and management skills, as she not only cares for her family but also for those who work for her. In ancient households, maidservants were common, and their well-being was a reflection of the household's prosperity and the mistress's character. This phrase highlights her fairness and generosity, aligning with biblical teachings on treating others with kindness and justice (Colossians 4:1). It also suggests a harmonious household where everyone is valued and cared for, reflecting the unity and love that should characterize Christian communities.
Persons / Places / Events
1.
The Virtuous WomanThe central figure in
Proverbs 31, often referred to as the "Proverbs 31 Woman," is an idealized representation of a godly and industrious woman. She embodies wisdom, diligence, and care for her family and community.
2.
Her HouseholdThis includes her immediate family and those who live under her care. The household is a place of provision, safety, and nurturing, reflecting the woman's commitment to her responsibilities.
3.
MaidservantsThese are the servants or helpers in the household. The virtuous woman ensures they are well-cared for, demonstrating her leadership and compassion.
4.
NightSymbolically, the night represents a time of rest, yet the virtuous woman rises early, indicating her dedication and willingness to sacrifice personal comfort for the well-being of others.
5.
FoodRepresents both physical sustenance and the broader concept of provision and care. The act of providing food is a tangible expression of love and responsibility.
Teaching Points
Diligence and Hard WorkThe virtuous woman exemplifies diligence by rising early to fulfill her responsibilities. Christians are encouraged to approach their duties with the same dedication and work ethic.
Sacrificial LoveHer willingness to rise while it is still night demonstrates sacrificial love. Believers are called to put the needs of others before their own comfort.
Leadership and StewardshipBy providing for her maidservants, the virtuous woman shows leadership and good stewardship. Christians should lead with integrity and care for those under their influence.
Preparation and PlanningThe act of rising early to prepare food highlights the importance of planning and foresight. Believers should be proactive in managing their households and responsibilities.
Community and CareThe virtuous woman's care extends beyond her family to her maidservants, illustrating the importance of community and caring for all within one's sphere of influence.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1.What is the meaning of Proverbs 31:15?
2.How does Proverbs 31:15 inspire diligence in daily responsibilities?
3.What does "provides food" teach about caring for family needs?
4.How can we prioritize time like the Proverbs 31 woman?
5.Connect Proverbs 31:15 with Colossians 3:23 on working heartily for the Lord.
6.How can we implement early rising to enhance productivity and service?
7.How does Proverbs 31:15 reflect the role of women in biblical times?
8.What cultural practices influenced the depiction of women in Proverbs 31:15?
9.How does Proverbs 31:15 align with modern views on gender roles?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Proverbs 31?
11.How can you consistently remain in Him?
12.Does Proverbs 31:10–31 conflict with other biblical passages, like 1 Timothy 2:11–12, that appear to limit women's roles?
13.In Job 31:13-15, how does Job's stance on treating servants align with what we know of ancient slavery practices and laws?
14.What does 'More Precious Than Rubies' mean?What Does Proverbs 31:15 Mean
She risesProverbs 31:15 opens, “She rises…”—conveying initiative and personal responsibility. Like the ant praised inProverbs 6:6–8, she is not prodded by others; her diligence springs from within. Jesus modeled this same spirit: “Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, He got up, went out, and departed to a solitary place to pray” (Mark 1:35). The verse invites believers to value purposeful beginnings to each day, choosing obedience over slothfulness (Ecclesiastes 9:10).
while it is still nightRising “while it is still night” underscores sacrifice. It is inconvenient, yet she lays comfort aside for the good of others.Psalm 119:147 echoes this: “I rise before dawn and cry for help; I have put my hope in Your word.” Though darkness surrounds, she moves in faith—trusting God to supply strength (Isaiah 40:31) and demonstrating watchfulness akin to the wise virgins who were ready when the bridegroom came (Matthew 25:4).
to provide food for her householdHer first concern is the well-being of those under her roof. This aligns with1 Timothy 5:8: “If anyone does not provide for his own, and especially his household, he has denied the faith.” Practical love is shown in tangible care, echoing Sarah hastening to knead dough for guests inGenesis 18:6 and Jesus providing breakfast for weary disciples inJohn 21:9–13. Key takeaways:
• Provision is daily, not sporadic (Exodus 16:4).
• Good stewardship plans ahead (Proverbs 21:5).
• Nourishing others includes spiritual encouragement (Deuteronomy 6:6–7).
and portions for her maidservantsShe extends care beyond immediate family to her workers, distributing “portions” with fairness.Colossians 4:1 urges, “Masters, supply your slaves with what is right and fair, since you know that you also have a Master in heaven.” By sharing, she mirrors Boaz, who offered Ruth roasted grain (Ruth 2:14), and she prefigures the early church’s equitable distribution so that “there were no needy persons among them” (Acts 4:34). Her leadership:
• Recognizes the dignity of every person (Job 31:13–15).
• Rewards labor appropriately (James 5:4).
• Models servant-hearted authority (Matthew 20:26–28).
summaryProverbs 31:15 paints a portrait of disciplined love. Rising before dawn, the virtuous woman chooses self-denial, diligent planning, and compassionate oversight so that everyone under her care—family and servants alike—receives timely provision. Her example calls believers to energetic, sacrificial service rooted in confidence that God honors faithful stewardship.
(15)
And giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens.--Gives out food for her household, and the allotted portion of provisions (comp.
Proverbs 30:8) or work (comp.
Exodus 5:14) to her maidens.
Verse 15. - VAV.
She riseth also while it is yet night. Before dawn she is up and stirring, to be ready for her daily occupation. A lamp is always kept burning at night in Eastern houses, and as it is of very small dimensions, the careful housewife has to rise at midnight to replenish the oil, and she often then begins her household work by grinding the corn or preparing something for next day's meals (comp. ver. 18). Early rising before any great undertaking is continually mentioned in Scripture (see
Genesis 19:2;
Genesis 22:3;
Psalm 57:8;
Jeremiah 7:13;
Jeremiah 25:4, etc.;
Mark 16:2;
John 20:1).
And giveth meat to her household;deditquae praedam domesticis suis, Vulgate. The word for "meat" is
tereph, which means "food torn in pieces" with the teeth (
Psalm 111:5), and hence food to be eaten. The wife thus early prepares or distributes the food which will be wanted for the day.
And a portion to her maidens.Chok, "final portion," may apply either to work or food. The Vulgate has
cibaria, "meat;" Septuagint,
ἔργα, "tasks." The former, which is in accordance with
Proverbs 30:8, would be merely a repetition of the second clause, the meat mentioned there being here called the allotted portion, and would be simply tautological. If we take it in the sense of "appointed labour," we get a new idea, very congruous with the housewife's activity (comp.
Exodus 5:14, where the same word is used in the case of the enforced labour of the Israelites).
Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew
She risesוַתָּ֤קָם ׀(wat·tā·qām)Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Consecutive imperfect - third person feminine singular
Strong's 6965:To arise, stand up, standwhile it is stillבְּע֬וֹד(bə·‘ō·wḏ)Preposition-b | Adverb
Strong's 5750:Iteration, continuance, again, repeatedly, still, morenightלַ֗יְלָה(lay·lāh)Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 3915:A twist, night, adversityto provideוַתִּתֵּ֣ן(wat·tit·tên)Conjunctive waw | Verb - Qal - Consecutive imperfect - third person feminine singular
Strong's 5414:To give, put, setfoodטֶ֣רֶף(ṭe·rep̄)Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 2964:Something torn, a fragment, a fresh leaf, prey, foodfor her householdלְבֵיתָ֑הּ(lə·ḇê·ṯāh)Preposition-l | Noun - masculine singular construct | third person feminine singular
Strong's 1004:A houseand portionsוְ֝חֹ֗ק(wə·ḥōq)Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 2706:Something prescribed or owed, a statutefor her maidservants.לְנַעֲרֹתֶֽיהָ׃(lə·na·‘ă·rō·ṯe·hā)Preposition-l | Noun - feminine plural construct | third person feminine singular
Strong's 5291:A girl, maiden
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OT Poetry: Proverbs 31:15 She rises also while it is yet (Prov. Pro Pr) 
