Proverbs 31:26

She opens her mouth with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue.

Study Bible

She opens her mouth with wisdom
This phrase highlights the virtue of wisdom, a central theme in the book of Proverbs. Wisdom in the biblical context is not merely knowledge but the application of divine principles in daily life. The woman described here embodies the ideal of a wise person, reflecting the fear of the Lord, which is the beginning of wisdom (Proverbs 9:10). Her wisdom is practical, guiding her actions and words. This mirrors the wisdom of Solomon, who asked God for an understanding heart to govern his people (1 Kings 3:9). The opening of her mouth signifies intentionality and purpose, suggesting that her words are carefully considered and rooted in a deep understanding of God's truth.

and faithful instruction is on her tongue
The term "faithful instruction" implies teaching that is reliable, trustworthy, and consistent with God's Word. This aligns with the biblical mandate for believers to teach and admonish one another with all wisdom (Colossians 3:16). The cultural context of ancient Israel placed a high value on oral tradition and the passing down of wisdom from one generation to the next. This woman serves as a teacher within her household and community, much like the role of a prophetess or wise woman in Israel (e.g., Deborah in Judges 4-5). Her instruction is not only faithful in content but also in delivery, characterized by love and integrity. This reflects the nature of Christ, who is the ultimate teacher and whose words are spirit and life (John 6:63).

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Virtuous Woman
The subject of Proverbs 31, often referred to as the "Proverbs 31 Woman," is an idealized figure representing the epitome of godly womanhood. She embodies wisdom, strength, and virtue.

2. King Lemuel
The chapter is introduced as the sayings of King Lemuel, which his mother taught him. This context suggests that the virtues described are those that a mother would want her son to seek in a wife.

3. Ancient Israel
The cultural and historical backdrop of Proverbs 31 is ancient Israel, where wisdom literature was highly valued, and the role of women was primarily centered around the home and family.

Teaching Points

The Power of Words
Our words have the power to build up or tear down. The virtuous woman uses her words to impart wisdom and instruction, reminding us to speak thoughtfully and with purpose.

Wisdom as a Lifestyle
Wisdom is not just about knowledge but about living out godly principles in everyday life. The Proverbs 31 woman exemplifies this through her actions and speech.

Faithful Instruction
The phrase "faithful instruction" implies teaching that is reliable and trustworthy. As Christians, we are called to share God's truth with integrity and consistency.

Role of Women in Ministry
This passage highlights the significant role women can play in teaching and guiding others, both within the family and the broader community.

Cultivating a Godly Character
The virtues of the Proverbs 31 woman are attainable through a relationship with God and the cultivation of a godly character, emphasizing the importance of spiritual growth.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the description of the virtuous woman in Proverbs 31:26 challenge or inspire your understanding of the role of women in the church and family today?

2. In what ways can you incorporate wisdom and faithful instruction into your daily conversations with others?

3. Reflect on a time when someone's words of wisdom had a significant impact on your life. How can you be that source of wisdom for someone else?

4. How do the qualities of the Proverbs 31 woman compare to the characteristics of wisdom described in James 3:17?

5. What practical steps can you take to ensure that your speech is full of grace and seasoned with salt, as encouraged in Colossians 4:6?

Connections to Other Scriptures

James 3:17
This verse describes the wisdom from above as pure, peace-loving, considerate, and full of mercy, which aligns with the wisdom spoken by the virtuous woman in Proverbs 31:26.

Colossians 4:6
This passage encourages believers to let their conversation be full of grace, seasoned with salt, which parallels the faithful instruction on the tongue of the Proverbs 31 woman.

Titus 2:3-5
These verses instruct older women to teach what is good and to train younger women, reflecting the role of the virtuous woman as a source of wisdom and instruction.