Devine Scripture

Proverbs 31:29

What does Proverbs 31:29 mean?

A plain-English look at Proverbs 31:29 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Proverbs 31:29 means

This verse records the high praise spoken by the worthy woman's husband, comparing her favorably to other virtuous women. He acknowledges that "Many daughters have done worthily," recognizing the existence of other capable and commendable women. However, he declares, "But thou excellest them all," placing his wife in a class of her own. This public affirmation highlights her unparalleled excellence in all the admirable qualities previously described, emphasizing her unique and superior contributions to their life together.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

Many daughters have done worthily, But thou excellest them all.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

Many daughters have done worthily, But thou excellest them all.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

Unnumbered women have done well, but you are better than all of them.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

`Many <FI>are<Fi> the daughters who have done worthily, Thou hast gone up above them all.'

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

Many daughters have gathered together riches: thou hast surpassed them all.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

Many daughters have done worthily, but thou excellest them all.

Context

This verse is a direct continuation of the praise begun in verse 28, presenting the husband's specific words of commendation. It elevates the worthy woman above others, setting a very high benchmark for female virtue. This declaration of her excellence leads directly into the concluding and most important reason for her praise in the next verse: her fear of the Lord.

v.28Her children rise up, and call her blessed; Her husbandalso, and he praiseth her, saying:

v.29This passage

v.30Grace is deceitful, and beauty is vain; Buta woman that feareth Jehovah, she shall be praised.

Cross references

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

  • Song of Solomon 6:8

    There are threescore queens, and fourscore concubines, And virgins without number.

  • Ephesians 5:27

    that he might present the church to himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.

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