Proverbs 31:18
What does Proverbs 31:18 mean?
A plain-English look at Proverbs 31:18 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Proverbs 31:18 means
This verse highlights the worthy woman's discernment in her business dealings and her ceaseless dedication. She "perceiveth that her merchandise is profitable," indicating her keen judgment and successful ventures. The phrase "her lamp goeth not out by night" literally points to her extended hours of work, often into the darkness. Metaphorically, it signifies her unwavering commitment, wakefulness, and constant vigilance over her duties and enterprises, ensuring prosperity through continuous effort and attention.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000She perceiveth that her merchandise is profitable; Her lamp goeth not out by night.
KJV
King James Version · 1611She perceiveth that her merchandise is good: her candle goeth not out by night.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901She perceiveth that her merchandise is profitable; Her lamp goeth not out by night.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949She sees that her marketing is of profit to her: her light does not go out by night.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862She hath perceived when her merchandise <FI>is<Fi> good, Her lamp is not extinguished in the night.
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752She hath tasted, and seen that her traffic is good: her lamp shall not be put out in the night.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890She perceiveth that her earning is good; her lamp goeth not out by night.
Context
Following the description of her personal strength (verse 17), this verse connects her physical endurance with her business success and tireless dedication. Her profitability and sustained effort set the stage for further descriptions of her textile work and compassionate outreach in the following verses, showcasing her balanced character.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- 2 Thessalonians 3:7
For yourselves know how ye ought to imitate us: for we behaved not ourselves disorderly among you;
- 1 Thessalonians 2:9
For ye remember, brethren, our labor and travail: working night and day, that we might not burden any of you, we preached unto you the gospel of God.
- Psalms 127:2
It is vain for you to rise up early, To take rest late, To eat the bread of toil; Forso he giveth unto his beloved sleep.
- Matthew 25:3
For the foolish, when they took their lamps, took no oil with them:
- Genesis 31:40
Thus I was; in the day the drought consumed me, and the frost by night; and my sleep fled from mine eyes.
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