Proverbs 31:16

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

Study Bible

She appraises a field and buys it;
This phrase highlights the woman's wisdom and discernment in making financial decisions. In ancient Israel, land ownership was a significant aspect of wealth and stability. The act of appraising a field suggests careful consideration and evaluation, indicating her prudence and business acumen. This mirrors the biblical principle of stewardship, as seen in the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30), where servants are entrusted with resources and expected to manage them wisely. The ability to buy land also reflects a level of independence and authority, which was notable in a patriarchal society. This echoes the virtuous woman's role as a capable and trusted partner in her household, reminiscent of the industriousness of the woman in the Song of Solomon, who tends to her vineyard (Song of Solomon 1:6).

from her earnings she plants a vineyard.
The planting of a vineyard signifies long-term planning and investment. Vineyards were valuable assets in biblical times, providing wine, a staple in the diet and a symbol of joy and blessing (Psalm 104:15). This action demonstrates foresight and the ability to generate ongoing income, ensuring the prosperity of her household. The mention of "her earnings" underscores her role in contributing economically, aligning with the Proverbs 31 woman's portrayal as industrious and resourceful. This can be seen as a type of Christ, who is the true vine (John 15:1), and believers are called to abide in Him to bear fruit. The vineyard also connects to the imagery of Israel as God's vineyard (Isaiah 5:1-7), where the faithful are expected to produce good fruit through their actions and stewardship.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Virtuous Woman
The 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 resourcefulness.

2. The Field
Represents opportunities and investments. In the context of ancient Israel, owning a field was a significant economic asset, providing sustenance and income.

3. The Vineyard
Symbolizes long-term planning and cultivation. Vineyards require time and care to produce fruit, reflecting the woman's foresight and commitment.

Teaching Points

Diligence and Wisdom in Stewardship
The virtuous woman exemplifies careful consideration and wise management of resources. Believers are encouraged to be diligent and thoughtful in their financial and personal decisions.

Long-term Vision and Planning
Planting a vineyard requires patience and foresight. Christians are called to plan for the future, investing time and resources in endeavors that yield spiritual and practical fruit.

Resourcefulness and Initiative
The woman's actions demonstrate initiative and resourcefulness. Followers of Christ should seek opportunities to use their gifts and resources for God's glory and the benefit of others.

Economic Contribution and Family Support
Her activities contribute to her household's well-being. This underscores the value of contributing to family and community through work and enterprise.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the virtuous woman's approach to buying a field and planting a vineyard reflect the biblical principle of stewardship?

2. In what ways can we apply the concept of long-term planning and investment in our spiritual lives and personal goals?

3. How does the example of the Proverbs 31 woman challenge modern perceptions of gender roles and economic contribution within a family?

4. What are some practical ways we can demonstrate resourcefulness and initiative in our daily lives, following the example of the virtuous woman?

5. How can the principles found in Proverbs 31:16 be applied to our understanding of work and its role in God's plan for our lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 1:28
The mandate to "be fruitful and multiply" connects to the woman's role in cultivating and expanding resources, reflecting God's original design for stewardship and productivity.

Proverbs 12:11
This verse speaks to the value of working the land and the rewards of diligence, paralleling the woman's investment in the field and vineyard.

Matthew 25:14-30
The Parable of the Talents highlights the importance of wisely investing resources, akin to the woman's prudent purchase and planting.