Devine Scripture

Proverbs 31:1

What does Proverbs 31:1 mean?

A plain-English look at Proverbs 31:1 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Proverbs 31:1 means

This verse introduces the profound wisdom contained within the chapter. It attributes the following words to King Lemuel and emphasizes that this isn't just his own musing, but a divine "oracle"—a weighty, inspired utterance—that his mother meticulously taught him. This opening highlights the significance of the instruction that follows, establishing it as a foundational guide for a king's life and reign, instilled by a source of trusted authority and love.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

The words of king Lemuel; the oracle which his mother taught him.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

The words of king Lemuel, the prophecy that his mother taught him.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

The words of king Lemuel; the oracle which his mother taught him.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

The words of Lemuel, king of Massa: the teaching which he had from his mother.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

Words of Lemuel a king, a declaration that his mother taught him:

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

The words of king Lamuel. The vision wherewith his mother instructed him.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

The words of king Lemuel, the prophecy that his mother taught him:

Context

This verse serves as the superscription for the entire chapter, immediately establishing the speaker and the source of the wisdom. It transitions from the more general wisdom teachings of earlier chapters in Proverbs to a specific, personal instruction directed at a king. This introduction sets the stage for the mother's direct admonitions concerning good governance and personal uprightness that immediately follow in the subsequent verses.

v.1This passage

v.2What, my son? and what, O son of my womb? And what, O son of my vows?

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • Proverbs 6:20

    My son, keep the commandment of thy father, And forsake not the law of thy mother:

  • Proverbs 30:1

    The words of Agur the son of Jakeh; the oracle. The man saith unto Ithiel, unto Ithiel and Ucal:

  • Proverbs 1:8

    My son, hear the instruction of thy father, And forsake not the law of thy mother:

  • 2 Timothy 1:5

    having been reminded of the unfeigned faith that is in thee; which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice; and, I am persuaded, in thee also.

  • 2 Timothy 3:15

    and that from a babe thou hast known the sacred writings which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.

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