"Who can find a virtuous wife? For her worth is far above rubies." ~ Proverbs 31:10



This is a new blog series on the Proverbs 31 Woman. Each week I will be reviewing the characteristics of the virtuous woman listed in this Proverb.
In verse 10 it asks; "Who can find a virtuous wife?" It almost sounds like a challenge. Well, in fact it is challenging for women to strive hard for the qualities of a virtuous woman.


So let's start by defining the term "Virtuous Woman".

The expression "virtuous woman" is from the Hebrew "ishshah chayil" and literally means "Power of Mind and Body" The word "chayil" is what God uses to describe His idea of a "Real" woman. The Hebrew Dictionary explains that the term "chayil" was used to describe great forces and armies. A woman said to be "chayil" would possess a certain strength, might, and power. A strong, capable woman with strong convictions.

A virtuous woman is different from all other women in this world. She has been set apart and recognizes her calling. We all have a unique calling. Throughout our life our calling may have surfaced a few times in different ways that we might have ignored. When we discover our calling we will experience a deep sense of peace.

To be "set apart" means that God has a specific purpose for our life. "For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope." ~Jeremiah 29:11


The first characteristic of a virtuous in this proverb describes her value; "For her worth is far above rubies."


Yes, a virtuous woman has more value than rubies because rubies are rare and hard to find. Rubies also have more value than diamonds. According to gem expert, Chris Ralph, "The very finest, top quality ruby is so rare that it has been the world's most valued gemstone for thousands of years. In fact, even today, flawless top quality rubies are more valuable and rare than top quality colorless diamonds. A 16 carat ruby sold at auction for US$227,301 per carat at Sothebys in 1988."

"She is more precious than rubies, And all the things you may desire cannot compare with her. Length of days is in her right hand, In her left hand riches and honor. Her ways are ways of pleasantness, And all her paths are peace. She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her, And happy are all who retain her."~ Proverbs 3:15-18