Proverbs 31:16
She considereth a field, and buyeth it: with the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard.
Proverbs 31:16 · King James Version
Meaning
Proverbs 31:16 speaks to the wisdom and diligence of a virtuous woman who carefully considers her investments and works hard to make them successful. In this verse, the woman is depicted as thoughtful and strategic in managing her resources. By "considereth a field, and buyeth it," she shows prudence and discernment in making decisions, indicating that she does not act impulsively but rather takes the time to assess the situation before taking action. The phrase "with the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard" emphasizes the woman's industrious nature and her ability to turn her investments into something fruitful and prosperous. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of wise and deliberate decision-making, as well as the value of hard work and dedication in achieving success.
Theological Overview
The theological interpretation of Proverbs 31:16 focuses on the virtuous woman portrayed in this passage as a model of wisdom and diligence. This verse illustrates her thoughtful approach to investment - she carefully assesses a field before purchasing it, indicating prudence and discernment in financial matters. The act of buying the field symbolizes her ability to make wise decisions and demonstrates her entrepreneurial spirit. By planting a vineyard with the earnings from her labor, she displays a commitment to long-term planning and sustainable growth. The fruit of her hands represents the tangible results of her hard work and dedication. This verse emphasizes the importance of stewardship, resourcefulness, and the rewards of diligence. In a broader sense, it also speaks to the value of strategic thinking, wise decision-making, and investing in the future for personal and communal benefit.
Proverbs 31:16 in other translations
American Standard Version
She considereth a field, and buyeth it; With the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard.
World English Bible
She considers a field, and buys it. With the fruit of her hands, she plants a vineyard.
Douay-Rheims
She hath considered a field, and bought it: with the fruit of her hands she hath planted a vineyard.
Geneva Bible (1599)
She considereth a field, and getteth it: and with the fruite of her handes she planteth a vineyarde.