She seeks wool and flax, and works with willing hands.
English Standard Version (ESV)
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Proverbs 31:13
What does Proverbs 31:13 mean?
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Proverbs 31:13
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This verse highlights that the virtuous woman actively seeks out the raw materials for her work, rather than waiting for things to be presented to her. Her willingness to labor isn't a chore; her hands "delight" in the activity, showing a genuine pleasure in productive effort, even in tasks considered humble.
She seeks wool and flax, and works with willing hands.
English Standard Version (ESV)
This passage appears in the detailed description of a capable and virtuous wife, highlighting her industry and resourcefulness. It follows the praise of her character and precedes descriptions of her business acumen and generosity. The verse paints a picture of her actively managing household needs, not by idleness, but by procuring raw materials and engaging in the work herself with a willing spirit.
This isn't just about knitting or sewing. It's about the foresight and initiative behind the work.
The verse says, "She seeks wool and flax." This isn't passive waiting; it's active procurement. She's not just waiting for materials to appear, but actively seeking them out. This implies planning and management, ensuring she has the resources needed for her household and perhaps for trade. It shows responsibility and diligence, not just in the doing, but in the preparation.
What does it mean to work 'willingly'? It's more than just showing up; it's about the heart behind the effort.
The phrase "works with willing hands" captures a beautiful aspect of her character. It's not about being forced or begrudgingly completing tasks. Her hands are willing, meaning her heart is engaged in her labor. This suggests finding satisfaction and even pleasure in the work itself. It's a demonstration of inner disposition that flows into outward action.
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Understand the original words
pishtah · Hebrew Noun
A plant fiber used for weaving fine linens. In the Bible, it is often associated with purity, cleanliness, and the industrious nature of a virtuous person.
chephets · Hebrew Adjective/Noun
A state of eagerness, readiness, or voluntary delight. It refers to a heart that is not coerced but acts with joyful initiative and diligence.
This passage highlights a woman of noble character who also engages in diligent work, showing that industriousness was a valued trait across different social strata.
Exodus 35:25This verse describes the skilled women in Israel who willingly offered their time and talents to serve God's purposes, mirroring the 'willing hands' mentioned in Proverbs 31.
1 Timothy 5:10This New Testament passage echoes the value of good works, such as providing for one's family, which aligns with the practical industry of the Proverbs 31 woman.
Colossians 3:23This verse encourages doing all work heartily, as for the Lord, which captures the spirit of cheerful diligence described in Proverbs 31:13, where work is done with willing hands.
pooleProverbs 31:13: "She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands."
She seeketh wool and flax, that she may find employment for her servants, and not suffer them to spend all their time unprofitably in ease and idleness. Worketh willingly with her hands; she encourageth them to work by her example; which was a common practice among princesses in those first and purest ages of the world. Not that it is the duty of kings and queens to use manual or mechanical operations, but that…
clarkeProverbs 31:13: "She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands."
She seeketh wood and flax, and worketh willingly, etc. - II. This is the second part of her character, giving the particulars of which it is composed. 1. She did not buy ready woven cloth: she procured the raw material, if wool, most probably from her own flocks; if flax, most probably from her own fields. 2. Here she manufactured; for she worketh willingly with her hands. And all her labor is a cheerful service…
This verse highlights that the virtuous woman actively seeks out the raw materials for her work, rather than waiting for things to be presented to her. Her willingness to labor isn't a chore; her hands "delight" in the activity, showing a genuine pleasure in productive effort, even in tasks considered humble.
This passage appears in the detailed description of a capable and virtuous wife, highlighting her industry and resourcefulness. It follows the praise of her character and precedes descriptions of her business acumen and generosity. The verse paints a picture of her actively managing household needs, not by idleness, but by procuring raw materials and engaging in the work herself with a willing spirit.
This passage appears in the detailed description of a capable and virtuous wife, highlighting her industry and resourcefulness. It follows the praise of her character and precedes descriptions of her business acumen and generosity. The verse paints a picture of her actively managing household needs, not by idleness, but by procuring raw materials and engaging in the work herself with a willing spirit.
"She seeks wool and flax, and works with willing hands." — This verse highlights that the virtuous woman actively seeks out the raw materials for her work, rather than waiting for things to be presented to her. Her willingness to labor isn't a chore; her han…
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Last reviewed October 2026