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Proverbs 31:30
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Summary
Commentary
- Keil-Delitzsch
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
What now follows is not a continuation of the husband's words of praise (Ewald, Elster, Lwenstein), but an epiphonema auctoris (Schultens); the poet confirms the praise of the husband by referring it to the general ground of its reason: 30 ש Grace is deceit; and beauty, vanity - A wife that feareth Jahve, she shall be praised. Grace is deceit, because he who estimates the works of a wife merely by the loveliness of her external appearance, is deceived by it; and beauty is vanity, vanitas, because it is nothing that remains, nothing that is real, but is subject to the law of all material things - transitoriness. The true value of a wife is measured only by that which is enduring, according to the moral background of its external appearance; according to the piety which makes itself manifest when the beauty of bodily form has faded away, in a beauty which is attractive. (Note: Vid., the application of Pro 31:30 in Taanith 26b: "Young man," say the maidens, "lift up thine eyes and behold that which thou choosest for thyself! Direct thine eyes not to beauty (נוי), direct thine eyes to the family (משׁפחה); pleasantness is a deception, etc.") יראת (with Makkeph following), (Note: The writing יראת־ is that of Ben Asher, יראת that of Ben Naphtali; Norzi, from a misunderstanding, claims יראת־ (with Gaja) as Ben Asher's manner of writing.) is here the connective form of יראה (fem. of ירא). The Hithpa. תתהלּל is here manifestly (Pro 27:2) not reflexive, but representative of the passive (cf. Pro 12:8, and the frequently occurring מהלּל, laudatus = laudandus), nowhere occurring except in the passage before us. In itself the fut. may also mean: she will be praised = is worthy of praise, but the jussive rendering (Luther: Let her be praised) is recommended by the verse which follows:
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Favour--or, "Grace" of personal manner. beauty--of face, or form (compare Pro 11:22). True piety alone commands permanent respect and affection (Pe1 3:3).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain,.... A well favoured look, a graceful countenance, symmetry and proportion of parts, natural or artificial beauty, are vain and deceitful; oftentimes under them lies an ill natured, deformed, and depraved mind; nor is the pleasure and satisfaction enjoyed as is promised along with these; and particularly how do they fade (e) and consume away by a fit of illness, and through old age, and at last by death? And so vain and deceitful are the favour and beauty, the artificial paintings, of Jezebel, that whore of Rome; all her meretricious deckings, dressings, and ornaments; her gaudy pomp and show in her worship, and the places of it; see Rev 17:4. Jarchi interprets this of the grandeur and glory of the kings of the nations; but a woman that feareth the Lord, she shall be praised; any single individual, man or woman, that fears the Lord; or a collective body of them, a society consisting of such persons, as the true church of Christ does; who have the grace of fear in their hearts, which is the beginning of wisdom, and includes the whole of religious worship, internal and external, private and public: such are taken notice of and highly valued by the Lord; his eye is upon them; his hand communicates to them much grace; and many benefits are bestowed upon them here, and great honour is conferred upon them, and great goodness is laid up for them. (e) "Forma bonum fragile est", Ovid. de Arte Amandi, l. 2.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
31:30-31 The book concludes where it began, by affirming the ultimate importance of the fear of the Lord (see 1:7). A woman’s character is more important than her physical beauty.
Proverbs 31:30
The Virtues of a Noble Woman
29“Many daughters have done noble things, but you surpass them all!” 30Charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting, but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised. 31Give her the fruit of her hands, and let her works praise her at the gates.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
A Call to Modesty (Compilation)
By Compilations2.3K13:33CompilationPRO 31:30ROM 12:21CO 6:19GAL 5:16EPH 5:31TI 2:91PE 3:3In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of living a holy and modest life. He urges the congregation to examine their lives and repent of any secret sins or hidden wrongdoings. The preacher also addresses the issue of immodest clothing and warns against drawing attention to oneself in a sensual manner. He emphasizes that the purpose of dress is to cover up, not to reveal. The sermon concludes with a call to rise up out of indifference and pursue a life of godliness, despite societal marginalization.
Choosing a Wife - Beauty Is Vain
By Tim Conway2.1K49:20PRO 12:4PRO 21:9PRO 21:19PRO 25:24PRO 27:15PRO 31:10PRO 31:30MAT 12:331PE 3:4This sermon emphasizes the importance of choosing a godly spouse over outward beauty or charm. It warns against the consequences of marrying a contentious or ungodly partner, highlighting the value of a wife who fears the Lord and the detrimental effects of a bad marriage. The speaker urges young men to seek a wife who is gentle, quiet, and godly, emphasizing that true beauty lies in a woman's character and reverence for God.
Lifting Up Jesus in the Gates
By Carter Conlon1.9K47:12KindnessPSA 46:10PRO 31:17PRO 31:30ISA 6:7MAT 6:33ROM 12:212PE 1:4In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the importance of lifting up Jesus in the gates. He emphasizes the need for believers to seek resources from God in order to fulfill their calling. The speaker highlights the characteristics of a virtuous woman as described in Proverbs 31, emphasizing the importance of selflessness and obedience to God's will. He also emphasizes the role of kindness in glorifying God and reaching out to others.
The Leader and His Wife
By Aaron Hurst1.8K1:18:03MarriagePRO 31:30EPH 5:22COL 3:18In this sermon, Brother Denny addresses the topic of love, leadership, and the relationship between husbands and wives. He emphasizes the importance of having a strong foundation in God's word and the fear of God in order to maintain a healthy and faithful marriage. He warns against the dangers of pornography and the negative impact it can have on a marriage. Brother Denny encourages husbands to cherish, nurture, and honor their wives, recognizing them as a gift from God and treating them with love and respect. He emphasizes the need for husbands to allow their wives to influence and change them, and to pray for their wives so that their prayers may not be hindered.
(Dreams & Visions of a Godly Home) the Beautiful Influence of a Godly Home
By Denny Kenaston1.8K1:03:31Godly Home VisionEXO 20:12DEU 6:6PSA 78:1PRO 31:30ISA 40:31HAB 2:2MAT 6:33In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of raising children as disciples of Jesus Christ. The goal is to make children love, serve, and walk with Him. The speaker draws inspiration from Jesus and His disciples, highlighting how Jesus poured His life into them. The speaker encourages parents to prioritize their children's spiritual growth and to immerse themselves in God's word to guide their parenting. The sermon emphasizes the need for a deep understanding of God's vision for families and future generations.
A Woman Who Fears the Lord Is to Be Praised
By John Piper1.8K33:52EXO 20:18PRO 31:28PRO 31:30In this sermon, the preacher uses a personal anecdote to illustrate the fear of God. He describes a situation where a dog chases after someone who runs away from it, comparing it to how God pursues those who run away from Him. The preacher then shifts the focus to the importance of cherishing loved ones and not taking them for granted. He emphasizes the need to be grateful and to focus on the positive aspects of life rather than being critical. Finally, the preacher discusses the significance of praising women who fear the Lord, stating that it not only feels good but also honors God.
Moved by the Holy Ghost 1991
By Leonard Ravenhill1.5K1:28:00PSA 144:5PRO 31:30MAT 6:19ACT 26:191CO 1:271PE 3:3This sermon reflects on encounters with remarkable women of faith throughout the speaker's life, from Catherine Booth to a modern-day anointed woman living in simplicity and devotion. It contrasts the pursuit of popularity by revivalists with the humility and prophetic calling of true prophets. The speaker shares insights on the challenges faced by believers in China and the impact of American evangelism overseas, emphasizing the need for genuine, sacrificial love and service.
Trying to Please the Lord
By Zac Poonen1.3K57:16PRO 31:30MAT 8:10MAT 18:4LUK 3:211CO 10:5EPH 5:101PE 3:3This sermon emphasizes the importance of aligning our thinking with God's will, focusing on humility, seeking what pleases the Lord, and valuing internal character over external appearances. It highlights the need to be childlike in humility, gentle, and quiet in spirit, following the example of Jesus and Mary. The message encourages seeking God's approval over the praise of men and striving to live a life that pleases the Father, even in hidden acts of goodness.
Perfect in Beauty
By Chuck Smith1.2K30:52JOB 2:1PRO 31:30ISA 14:12EZK 28:12MAT 6:24JHN 10:10REV 20:10REV 22:18This sermon delves into the story of Job, highlighting how Satan seeks to strip away God's blessings and bring pain and suffering. It emphasizes the contrast between the fallen angel Satan, who offers temporary glamour but ultimate destruction, and Jesus Christ, who offers abundant life and eternal blessings. The sermon warns against the deceptive attractiveness of Satan and urges listeners to make the wise choice of following Jesus to avoid the lasting pain and suffering that comes from serving Satan.
Testimony - the Deep Impact That My Mother on My Life (Dutch)
By K.P. Yohannan73317:00PRO 31:30MAT 6:19MAT 28:19MRK 8:34This sermon shares a personal story of a mother's deep faith and sacrificial love for God, highlighting her unwavering commitment to serving Him and impacting lives through selfless acts of kindness and generosity. It emphasizes the importance of living a life dedicated to Christ, prioritizing eternal values over worldly possessions, and being willing to sacrifice for the sake of spreading the Gospel and leading others to Jesus.
Gods Roadmap for Mothers and Fathers] (Proverbs 31)
By Shane Idleman64745:18PRO 31:30ISA 41:10PHP 4:6JAS 1:5This sermon emphasizes the importance of focusing on God's faithfulness and trusting in Him, highlighting the qualities of a Proverbs 31 woman who fears the Lord. It addresses the need to avoid criticism and complaining, and instead be thankful and joyful, reflecting a heart of faithfulness. The message encourages surrendering all aspects of life to God and relying on His strength and guidance.
(Through the Bible) Proverbs
By Zac Poonen44657:05PRO 1:7PRO 3:5PRO 11:30PRO 14:12PRO 16:18PRO 22:4PRO 27:23PRO 29:18PRO 31:30This sermon delves into the wisdom found in the book of Proverbs, emphasizing the importance of balancing devotion to God with practical living on earth. It covers a wide array of topics including wisdom, hard work, speech, relationships, discipline, humility, and the fear of the Lord. The sermon highlights the need for humility, diligence, discernment, and the pursuit of God's wisdom in daily life.
Proverbs 31:30
By Chuck Smith0Inner WorthTrue Beauty1SA 16:7PSA 139:14PRO 31:30ECC 3:11ISA 40:8MAT 6:11CO 13:4GAL 1:101TI 2:91PE 3:3Chuck Smith emphasizes the concept of true beauty in women, highlighting that while praise and approval are deeply desired, they should not be sought from the fleeting favor of the crowd or superficial beauty. He explains that true fulfillment comes from a life that fears the Lord, as this inner beauty is what truly attracts and earns genuine praise. Smith warns against the emptiness of seeking validation through external appearances and societal approval, encouraging women to focus on their relationship with God as the source of their worth and beauty.
The Example of Jesus
By Clement of Rome0GEN 2:24PRO 31:301CO 6:181TH 4:31PE 3:4Clement of Rome emphasizes the separation and purity in relationships between men and women, drawing examples from the interactions of Jesus Christ and His disciples with women. He highlights the reverence and boundaries observed by holy women who ministered to men, such as the Shunammite woman and Elisha. Clement urges self-examination, adherence to trustworthy rules, and living uprightly in the Lord, following the examples set by these holy women.
The Influence
By Tim Grissom0JOS 1:8PSA 119:105PRO 31:30JAS 1:221PE 3:1Tim Grissom shares a heartfelt tribute to his late wife, Janiece, who lived a life of grace, courage, and peace, leaving a lasting impact on her family and friends. He reflects on her unwavering commitment to daily quiet time with God through Bible reading and prayer, which shaped her into a godly woman. Grissom acknowledges his own struggles with rebellion but finds inspiration in his wife's simple faith and devotion to Christ, leading him to embrace regular intake of God's Word as a transformative practice in his life.
1 Peter 3:5
By John Gill0Faith and SubmissionInner Beauty1SA 16:7PRO 31:301CO 11:3GAL 5:22EPH 5:22COL 3:181TI 2:9HEB 11:111PE 3:4John Gill emphasizes the importance of inner beauty over outward adornment in his sermon on 1 Peter 3:5. He reflects on the examples of holy women from the Old Testament, such as Sarah and Ruth, who exemplified faith and trust in God while maintaining a humble and submissive spirit. Gill encourages women to prioritize their spiritual adornment, which is characterized by meekness and humility, rather than focusing on external appearances. He asserts that true beauty in God's eyes comes from a heart that is devoted to Him and in alignment with His design for relationships. This inward adornment is not only pleasing to God but also serves as a powerful witness to others.
Rejoicing in God's Love
By Mary Wilder Tileston0PSA 25:9PRO 31:30ISA 65:14MAT 5:16MAT 25:211TI 6:171JN 4:7Mary Wilder Tileston preaches about finding joy and happiness in the Lord's salvation, emphasizing the importance of having a heart filled with grace, a voice of joy, and a shining face to reflect God's love. She encourages believers to show love and compassion to others, helping them along the way with cheerfulness and heavenly mirth, brightening their steps on earth. Tileston reminds that those who love God are surrounded by gladness, experiencing a Father's love in every moment that cannot be taken away by worldly troubles. She concludes by highlighting the responsibility of using our own happiness as a talent to make others' lives happy until the return of the Master.
Whatsoever Things Are Lovely
By A.B. Simpson0Christian CharacterVirtues and GracesPRO 31:30MAT 5:16ROM 12:12CO 5:17GAL 5:22EPH 4:1PHP 4:8COL 3:121TI 4:121PE 2:9A.B. Simpson emphasizes the importance of both essential virtues and ornamental qualities in Christian character, as outlined in Philippians 4:8. He categorizes virtues into two classes: the foundational qualities of truth, justice, and purity, which are essential for morality and religion, and the graces of honor, loveliness, and good report, which enhance one's character. Simpson encourages believers to cultivate these qualities, as they reflect the beauty of holiness and the character of Christ. He illustrates how these attributes can transform ordinary lives into examples of divine grace and influence. Ultimately, he calls for a life that embodies both the solid virtues and the lovely graces that attract others to Christ.
Philippians Chapter 7 Whatsoever Things Are Lovely
By A.B. Simpson0Christian CharacterVirtues and GracesPRO 31:30MAT 5:16ROM 12:22CO 5:17GAL 5:22EPH 4:29PHP 4:8COL 3:121TH 5:111PE 2:9A.B. Simpson emphasizes the importance of focusing on virtues that are both essential and ornamental in the Christian life, as outlined in Philippians 4:8. He categorizes virtues into two classes: the foundational qualities of truth, justice, and purity, which are essential for morality and religion, and the graces of character such as honor, loveliness, and good report, which enhance our witness. Simpson encourages believers to cultivate both classes of virtues, highlighting that while one can be a Christian without the ornamental graces, they are vital for a fully effective and beautiful Christian life. He illustrates how these qualities can transform our character and influence, urging us to reflect the beauty of holiness in our daily interactions. Ultimately, he calls for a life that not only embodies truth and righteousness but also radiates the loveliness and grace of Christ.
All Shadow and Vanity
By Thomas Brooks0Eternal PerspectiveVanity of the WorldPSA 39:5PRO 31:30ECC 1:2ISA 40:6MAT 6:19LUK 12:152CO 4:18COL 3:2JAS 4:141JN 2:17Thomas Brooks emphasizes the profound emptiness of worldly pursuits, echoing Solomon's declaration that all is vanity. He illustrates that the pleasures and achievements of this life are fleeting and ultimately unsatisfying, akin to a shadow that quickly fades away. Brooks urges listeners to recognize the transient nature of earthly joys and the futility of seeking fulfillment in them, as they are ultimately deceptive and lead to disappointment. He draws parallels between worldly allurements and the forbidden fruit, highlighting their superficial appeal but deadly consequences. The sermon calls for a deeper understanding of true value beyond the vanity of this world.
The Life of Anne Audland Camm
By Anne Audland Camm0PRO 31:30PHP 1:212TI 4:7HEB 12:11PE 4:16Anne Audland Camm, a dedicated minister of the Gospel in the Society of Friends, led a life of faith, service, and perseverance despite facing imprisonment, false accusations, and harsh persecutions for her unwavering commitment to spreading the message of Christ. She exemplified humility, wisdom, and unwavering faith in the face of adversity, always seeking God's guidance and approval through prayer and Scripture reading. Anne's ministry bore much fruit, leading many to the Truth and establishing new meetings in various regions. Her life and teachings serve as a powerful example of enduring faith, sacrificial love, and steadfast dedication to the cause of Christ.
Strength and Beauty
By J.R. Miller0Strength and BeautySpiritual GrowthPSA 96:6PRO 31:30MAT 5:16ROM 8:282CO 12:9GAL 5:22EPH 2:10PHP 4:8COL 3:231JN 3:2J.R. Miller emphasizes the intertwined nature of strength and beauty in a Christian's character, arguing that true nobility arises from the combination of both qualities. He illustrates that while strength alone can be harsh and beauty can be weak, the ideal Christian life embodies both, reflecting God's own nature. Miller encourages believers to strive for spiritual growth, recognizing that imperfections and struggles are part of the journey towards holiness and that true religion permeates every aspect of life. He reminds us that our efforts, even when flawed, are beautiful in God's eyes when motivated by love and faith. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a life that is both strong in faith and beautiful in character, serving as a blessing to others.
Not Enough Pens- nor Enough Paper (A Brief Look Into Jewish Persecution) Introduction
By Robert Wurtz II0PSA 25:14PSA 31:19PSA 34:7PSA 103:11PSA 145:19PRO 9:10PRO 12:4PRO 14:26PRO 31:30ISA 8:13John Piper preaches on the importance of praising and honoring women who fear the Lord, using Proverbs 31:30 as the focal point. He highlights the acrostic structure of Proverbs 31 and the 22 praiseworthy attributes of a woman who fears the Lord. Piper delves into the meaning of 'fearing the Lord' as a deep reverence and trust in God, leading to peace, security, and hope. He emphasizes the blessings and promises that come with fearing the Lord, encouraging women to find strength, wisdom, and generosity in their faith.
- Keil-Delitzsch
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
What now follows is not a continuation of the husband's words of praise (Ewald, Elster, Lwenstein), but an epiphonema auctoris (Schultens); the poet confirms the praise of the husband by referring it to the general ground of its reason: 30 ש Grace is deceit; and beauty, vanity - A wife that feareth Jahve, she shall be praised. Grace is deceit, because he who estimates the works of a wife merely by the loveliness of her external appearance, is deceived by it; and beauty is vanity, vanitas, because it is nothing that remains, nothing that is real, but is subject to the law of all material things - transitoriness. The true value of a wife is measured only by that which is enduring, according to the moral background of its external appearance; according to the piety which makes itself manifest when the beauty of bodily form has faded away, in a beauty which is attractive. (Note: Vid., the application of Pro 31:30 in Taanith 26b: "Young man," say the maidens, "lift up thine eyes and behold that which thou choosest for thyself! Direct thine eyes not to beauty (נוי), direct thine eyes to the family (משׁפחה); pleasantness is a deception, etc.") יראת (with Makkeph following), (Note: The writing יראת־ is that of Ben Asher, יראת that of Ben Naphtali; Norzi, from a misunderstanding, claims יראת־ (with Gaja) as Ben Asher's manner of writing.) is here the connective form of יראה (fem. of ירא). The Hithpa. תתהלּל is here manifestly (Pro 27:2) not reflexive, but representative of the passive (cf. Pro 12:8, and the frequently occurring מהלּל, laudatus = laudandus), nowhere occurring except in the passage before us. In itself the fut. may also mean: she will be praised = is worthy of praise, but the jussive rendering (Luther: Let her be praised) is recommended by the verse which follows:
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Favour--or, "Grace" of personal manner. beauty--of face, or form (compare Pro 11:22). True piety alone commands permanent respect and affection (Pe1 3:3).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain,.... A well favoured look, a graceful countenance, symmetry and proportion of parts, natural or artificial beauty, are vain and deceitful; oftentimes under them lies an ill natured, deformed, and depraved mind; nor is the pleasure and satisfaction enjoyed as is promised along with these; and particularly how do they fade (e) and consume away by a fit of illness, and through old age, and at last by death? And so vain and deceitful are the favour and beauty, the artificial paintings, of Jezebel, that whore of Rome; all her meretricious deckings, dressings, and ornaments; her gaudy pomp and show in her worship, and the places of it; see Rev 17:4. Jarchi interprets this of the grandeur and glory of the kings of the nations; but a woman that feareth the Lord, she shall be praised; any single individual, man or woman, that fears the Lord; or a collective body of them, a society consisting of such persons, as the true church of Christ does; who have the grace of fear in their hearts, which is the beginning of wisdom, and includes the whole of religious worship, internal and external, private and public: such are taken notice of and highly valued by the Lord; his eye is upon them; his hand communicates to them much grace; and many benefits are bestowed upon them here, and great honour is conferred upon them, and great goodness is laid up for them. (e) "Forma bonum fragile est", Ovid. de Arte Amandi, l. 2.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
31:30-31 The book concludes where it began, by affirming the ultimate importance of the fear of the Lord (see 1:7). A woman’s character is more important than her physical beauty.