Proverbs 31:27
Proverbs 31:27 in Multiple Translations
She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.
She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness.
She looketh well to the ways of her household, And eateth not the bread of idleness.
She gives attention to the ways of her family, she does not take her food without working for it.
She looks after the needs of her whole household, and she's never idle.
She ouerseeth the wayes of her housholde, and eateth not the bread of ydlenes.
She [is] watching the ways of her household, And bread of sloth she eateth not.
She looks well to the ways of her household, and doesn’t eat the bread of idleness.
She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness.
She hath looked well to the paths of her house, and hath not eaten her bread idle.
She watches over everything that is done in her household, and she [IDM] is never lazy.
Berean Amplified Bible — Proverbs 31:27
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
Proverbs 31:27 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
צ֭וֹפִיָּה
הֲלִיכ֣וֹת
בֵּיתָ֑/הּ
וְ/לֶ֥חֶם
עַ֝צְל֗וּת
לֹ֣א
תֹאכֵֽל
צ֭וֹפִיָּה
tsâphâh
H6822
to watch
V-Qal
הֲלִיכ֣וֹת
hălîykâh
H1979
walk
N-fp
בֵּיתָ֑/הּ
bayith
H1004
place
N-ms | Suff
וְ/לֶ֥חֶם
lechem
H3899
food
Conj | N-cs
עַ֝צְל֗וּת
ʻatslûwth
H6104
sluggishness
N-fs
לֹ֣א
lôʼ
H3808
not
Part
תֹאכֵֽל
ʼâkal
H398
to eat
V-Qal-Imperf-3fs
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — Proverbs 31:27
צ֭וֹפִיָּה
tsâphâh
H6822
"to watch"
V-Qal
Tsaphah means to watch or observe, often by leaning forward to see into the distance. It can also mean to wait or keep watch, like a guard.
Definition: 1) to look out or about, spy, keep watch, observe, watch 1a)(Qal) to keep watch, spy 1b) (Piel) to watch, watch closely
Usage: Occurs in 33 OT verses. KJV: behold, espy, look up (well), wait for, (keep the) watch(-man). See also: Genesis 31:49; Proverbs 31:27; Psalms 5:4.
הֲלִיכ֣וֹת
hălîykâh
H1979
"walk"
N-fp
Refers to the act of walking or traveling, often in a group or procession. It can also describe a company of people on the move. Used in the Bible to describe the Israelites' journeys.
Definition: 1) going, doing, travelling company, way 1a) going, walk, marching, doings 1b) travelling company, caravan
Usage: Occurs in 5 OT verses. KJV: company, going, walk, way. See also: Job 6:19; Proverbs 31:27; Psalms 68:25.
בֵּיתָ֑/הּ
bayith
H1004
"place"
N-ms | Suff
The Hebrew word for house refers to a dwelling place, including a family home, temple, or even the human body. It appears in various contexts, such as the temple in Jerusalem or the household of a family. In the Bible, it is often used to describe a place of worship or a family's living space.
Definition: nm place, origin, between
Usage: Occurs in 1712 OT verses. KJV: court, daughter, door, [phrase] dungeon, family, [phrase] forth of, [idiom] great as would contain, hangings, home(born), (winter) house(-hold), inside(-ward), palace, place, [phrase] prison, [phrase] steward, [phrase] tablet, temple, web, [phrase] within(-out). See also: Genesis 6:14; Exodus 8:5; Numbers 1:45.
וְ/לֶ֥חֶם
lechem
H3899
"food"
Conj | N-cs
This Hebrew word refers to food, especially bread or grain. It's used throughout the Bible to describe meals, sacrifices, and daily life, highlighting the importance of food in ancient Israelite culture.
Definition: : food(eating) 1) bread, food, grain 1a) bread 1a1) bread 1a2) bread-corn 1b) food (in general)
Usage: Occurs in 277 OT verses. KJV: (shew-) bread, [idiom] eat, food, fruit, loaf, meat, victuals. See also: Genesis 3:19; 1 Samuel 20:34; Psalms 14:4.
עַ֝צְל֗וּת
ʻatslûwth
H6104
"sluggishness"
N-fs
This word describes a state of being idle or inactive, often due to laziness, and is translated as idleness in the KJV. It is related to the idea of not being diligent or hardworking, as discussed in the Bible.
Definition: sluggishness, laziness
Usage: Occurs in 1 OT verses. KJV: idleness. See also: Proverbs 31:27.
לֹ֣א
lôʼ
H3808
"not"
Part
The Hebrew word for not or no is used to indicate absence or negation, as when God says no to the Israelites' requests, or when they disobey His commands.
Definition: 1) not, no 1a) not (with verb-absolute prohibition) 1b) not (with modifier-negation) 1c) nothing (subst) 1d) without (with particle) 1e) before (of time) Aramaic equivalent: la (לָא "not" H3809)
Usage: Occurs in 3967 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] before, [phrase] or else, ere, [phrase] except, ig(-norant), much, less, nay, neither, never, no((-ne), -r, (-thing)), ([idiom] as though...,(can-), for) not (out of), of nought, otherwise, out of, [phrase] surely, [phrase] as truly as, [phrase] of a truth, [phrase] verily, for want, [phrase] whether, without. See also: Genesis 2:5; Genesis 31:15; Exodus 4:9.
תֹאכֵֽל
ʼâkal
H398
"to eat"
V-Qal-Imperf-3fs
This word means to eat or devour, and it's used in many stories, including when Jesus fed the 5000 with fish and bread in the book of Matthew. It's about taking in nourishment and being satisfied.
Definition: 1) to eat, devour, burn up, feed 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to eat (human subject) 1a2) to eat, devour (of beasts and birds) 1a3) to devour, consume (of fire) 1a4) to devour, slay (of sword) 1a5) to devour, consume, destroy (inanimate subjects - ie, pestilence, drought) 1a6) to devour (of oppression) 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be eaten (by men) 1b2) to be devoured, consumed (of fire) 1b3) to be wasted, destroyed (of flesh) 1c) (Pual) 1c1) to cause to eat, feed with 1c2) to cause to devour 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to feed 1d2) to cause to eat 1e) (Piel) 1e1) consume Aramaic equivalent: a.khal (אֲכַל "to devour" H0399)
Usage: Occurs in 703 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] at all, burn up, consume, devour(-er, up), dine, eat(-er, up), feed (with), food, [idiom] freely, [idiom] in...wise(-deed, plenty), (lay) meat, [idiom] quite. See also: Genesis 2:16; Leviticus 6:9; Numbers 24:8.
Study Notes — Proverbs 31:27
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Proverbs 31:27 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Proverbs 31:27
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Proverbs 31:27
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Proverbs 31:27
- Trapp's Commentary on Proverbs 31:27
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on Proverbs 31:27
- Cambridge Bible on Proverbs 31:27
- Whedon's Commentary on Proverbs 31:27
- Sermons on Proverbs 31:27
Context — The Virtues of a Noble Woman
25Strength and honor are her clothing, and she can laugh at the days to come.
26She opens her mouth with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue.
27She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.
28Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband praises her as well: 29“Many daughters have done noble things, but you surpass them all!”Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 Timothy 5:10 | and well known for good deeds such as bringing up children, entertaining strangers, washing the feet of the saints, imparting relief to the afflicted, and devoting herself to every good work. |
| 2 | Titus 2:4 | In this way they can train the young women to love their husbands and children, |
| 3 | 2 Thessalonians 3:6 | Now we command you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, to keep away from any brother who leads an undisciplined life that is not in keeping with the tradition you received from us. |
| 4 | Proverbs 14:1 | Every wise woman builds her house, but a foolish one tears it down with her own hands. |
| 5 | 1 Thessalonians 4:11 | and to aspire to live quietly, to attend to your own matters, and to work with your own hands, as we instructed you. |
Proverbs 31:27 Summary
The verse Proverbs 31:27 tells us that a virtuous woman is responsible and diligent in taking care of her home and family. She makes sure everything runs smoothly and efficiently, similar to how God entrusted Adam to care for the garden in Genesis 1:28. This doesn't mean she never rests, but rather that she doesn't avoid her responsibilities or live a lazy lifestyle, as warned against in Proverbs 6:6-11 and 2 Thessalonians 3:10-12. By following her example and trusting in God's sovereignty, as seen in Matthew 11:28-30 and Psalm 127:2, we can cultivate a spirit of diligence and hard work in our own lives.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean to 'watch over the affairs of her household' in Proverbs 31:27?
This phrase means that the virtuous woman is diligent and responsible in managing her home and family, as seen in Proverbs 31:27, ensuring everything runs smoothly and efficiently, similar to the stewardship described in Genesis 1:28 and Genesis 2:15.
Is it wrong to take a break and rest, given that she 'does not eat the bread of idleness'?
While rest is necessary and good, as seen in Exodus 20:11 and Hebrews 4:9-11, the 'bread of idleness' refers to a lifestyle of laziness and avoidance of responsibility, which is contrary to the diligent and hardworking spirit of the virtuous woman in Proverbs 31:27.
How can I, as a Christian, balance work and rest in my own life?
By following the example of the virtuous woman in Proverbs 31:27 and recognizing the importance of diligence and responsibility, as well as the need for rest and trust in God's sovereignty, as seen in Matthew 11:28-30 and Psalm 127:2.
What role does faith play in the virtuous woman's ability to 'watch over the affairs of her household'?
The virtuous woman's faith is evident in her trust in God's provision and guidance, as seen in Proverbs 3:5-6 and Psalm 37:3-7, which enables her to manage her household with confidence and wisdom, as described in Proverbs 31:27.
Reflection Questions
- What are some areas in my life where I can apply the virtuous woman's example of diligence and responsibility, as seen in Proverbs 31:27?
- How can I prioritize my responsibilities and manage my time more effectively, in light of Proverbs 31:27 and other scriptures like Ephesians 5:15-17?
- In what ways can I trust God to provide for my needs and guide me in my responsibilities, as the virtuous woman does in Proverbs 31:27, and as seen in Psalm 23:1-4 and Matthew 6:25-34?
- What are some practical steps I can take to avoid the 'bread of idleness' and cultivate a spirit of diligence and hard work, as described in Proverbs 31:27 and supported by Proverbs 6:6-11 and 2 Thessalonians 3:10-12?
Gill's Exposition on Proverbs 31:27
She looketh well to the ways of her household,.... The business of her house, her domestic affairs; that her children and servants have convenient food, and in due season; that they have proper
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Proverbs 31:27
Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies. The praises of a virtuous woman; forming a Hebrew acrostic. The 22 years begin with the several 22 letters of the Hebrew alphabet consecutively; M.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Proverbs 31:27
She looketh well to the ways of her household; she diligently observeth the management and progress of her domestic business, and the whole carriage and conversation of her children and servants; whereby also he intimates that she spends not her thee in gadding abroad to other houses, and idle discourses about the concerns of other persons, as the manner of many women is, but is wholly intent upon her own house and proper business. Eateth not the bread of idleness; that which is got by idleness, or without labour.
Trapp's Commentary on Proverbs 31:27
Proverbs 31:27 She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness.Ver. 27. She looketh well to the ways of her household.] She hath an oar in every boat, an eye in every business; she spies and pries into her children’ s and servants’ carriages, and exacts of them strict conversation and growth in godliness: she overlooks the whole family no otherwise than if she were in a watch tower; Speculatur itinera domus suae. And eateth not the bread of idleness.] She earns it before she eats it. Aristotle also commends φιλεργια, laboriousness, in a woman, and joins it with temperance and chastity, which are preserved by it. So is taciturnity and sober communication, for which she is commended in the former verse. For, as idleness is the seed of talkativeness, so painfulness is a singular help against it. Queen Catherine of Spain, wife to our Henry VIII, was not more busy in her calling than prudent in her carriage. She had been counselled to it by Ludovicus Vives, who came into England with her, and was master to her daughter, the Lady Mary. Arist. Rhet., lib. i.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Proverbs 31:27
Verse 27. She looketh well to the ways of her household] 18. She is a moral manager: she takes care that all shall behave themselves well; that none of them shall keep bad company or contract vicious habits. A religious industry, or an industrious religion, is the law of her house. She can instruct them in religion, as well as she can teach them in their labour. In her house, diligence in business, and fervency of spirit, serving the Lord, go hand in hand. And eateth not the bread of idleness.] 19. She knows that idleness leads to vice; and therefore every one has his work, and every one has his proper food. That they may work well, they are fed well; and every one, at least, earns the bread that he eats - eateth not the bread of idleness.
Cambridge Bible on Proverbs 31:27
27. looketh well to] a happy rendering. Lit. keepeth watch upon, as in Proverbs 15:3. As Almighty God, from His lofty watch-tower in heaven, observes all the minutest details of the manifold work that is going on in the busy hive of earth, so does she from her exalted position in which He has placed her, as mistress of the family, and as responsible to Him, observe “the ways of her household.” Comp. “He that ruleth (let him do it) with diligence,” Romans 12:8.
Whedon's Commentary on Proverbs 31:27
27. Looketh well to… her household — Watches over, controls, directs, cares for, all the affairs and persons of her family.
Sermons on Proverbs 31:27
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
|
Crash Course to a Wonderful Family - Part 3 by David Servant | This sermon emphasizes the importance of diligently raising children in the ways of the Lord, highlighting the impact of parental influence on children's faith and righteousness. I |
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On Sundays, Let All Occupy Themselves in Reading by St. Benedict of Nursia | St. Benedict of Nursia emphasizes the importance of occupying oneself in reading and various duties on Sundays, highlighting the need to avoid idleness and negligence. He advises t |
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What Wilt Thou Have Me to Do?-What Shall We Do?-What Must I Do? by W.J. Erdman | W.J. Erdman preaches about the importance of asking the question 'What shall I do?' in the right way, emphasizing the need for repentance and belief in Jesus as the work of God. He |
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The Service of Women by John Nelson Darby | John Nelson Darby emphasizes the vital role of women in the church, highlighting their service through acts of kindness, hospitality, and support for the afflicted, as outlined in |
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Epistle 321 by George Fox | George Fox emphasizes the significance of good works in the life of a believer, illustrating that Christ gave Himself to redeem us and purify a people zealous for good deeds. He re |
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2 Timothy 3:1-7 by St. John Chrysostom | John Chrysostom preaches about the signs of the last days, warning of perilous times when people will be consumed by self-love, covetousness, boasting, pride, blasphemy, disobedien |
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We Shall All Stand Before the Judgement Seat of Christ by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of appearing before the Judgment Seat of Christ. He references Romans 14:10, which states that everyone will give an account |