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Here we are priveleged to read the soaring hymn to the virtuous woman, the crowning jewel of all the book of Proverbs. Interesting that this passage has been used by both traditionalists and by feminists.

Some of the things the virtuous woman does create a picture of the Victorian Era woman. She is virtuous. Her husband trusts her. She will always do him good. She works willingly with her hands in the cloth. She arises early and makes the meals for the household. She works day and night. She helps the poor and needy. It's her husband who is known in the land, among the leaders of the nation.

On the other hand, there are things that the virtuous woman accomplishes and commands that place here way out there in the public. She brings her food from a long ways away. She researches land and makes purchases. She becomes strong, perhaps even amassing an army. She knows here merchandise is good and sells it to the merchants.

There are two small sayings here that truly inspire me:

Verse 26: She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness.

and

Verse 31: Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates.