Proverbs 31:21
What does Proverbs 31:21 mean?
A plain-English look at Proverbs 31:21 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What Proverbs 31:21 means
This verse highlights the worthy woman's proactive concern and masterful preparedness for her family's well-being, especially regarding harsh weather. She is "not afraid of the snow for her household" because she has meticulously prepared their clothing. The detail that "all her household are clothed with scarlet" signifies not just warmth, but also quality and possibly a vibrant, luxurious dye that speaks to her ability to provide superior garments, ensuring both comfort and dignity for her family even in severe conditions.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000She is not afraid of the snow for her household; For all her household are clothed with scarlet.
KJV
King James Version · 1611She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household are clothed with scarlet.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901She is not afraid of the snow for her household; For all her household are clothed with scarlet.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949She has no fear of the snow for her family, for all those in her house are clothed in red.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862She is not afraid of her household from snow, For all her household are clothed <FI>with<Fi> scarlet.
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752She shall not fear for her house in the cold of snow: for all her domestics are clothed with double garments.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890She is not afraid of the snow for her household; for all her household are clothed with scarlet.
Context
After showing her generosity to the poor (verse 20), this verse shifts to her diligent care for her own family, specifically her foresight in providing for their needs. This demonstrates her internal focus on her household's well-being, a theme that continues with descriptions of her own clothing and her husband's reputation in the verses immediately following, all stemming from her efforts.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- 2 Samuel 1:24
Ye daughters of Israel, weep over Saul, Who clothed you in scarlet delicately, Who put ornaments of gold upon your apparel.
- Genesis 45:22
To all of them he gave each man changes of raiment; but to Benjamin he gave three hundred pieces of silver, and five changes of raiment.
- Proverbs 25:20
As one that taketh off a garment in cold weather, and as vinegar upon soda, So is he that singeth songs to a heavy heart.
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