Proverbs 31:22

Prov. 31:22

She makes coverings for herself;

Her clothing is fine linen and purple.

I have read this verse many times, but never actually studied it.  Because of that, I was surprised.  I had always assumed that “coverings” referred to the Excellent Woman’s garments.  In doing my study for this verse, I discovered that it does not.

Makes – asah =  to do, fashion, accomplish, make

Coverings – marbad = [from the verb rabad  meaning to spread], spread (as in bedspread), coverlet.

Purple – ‘argaman = purple,  red-purple (either the color or the dyed goods).  Due to it’s cost, it is associated with royalty or the favor of royalty, nobility, the priests, and the temple.

In Proverbs 31, the word “clothing” is used both literally (here) and symbolically.

Clothing reveal something about the wearer: rank, status, or circumstance.  We all understand this intuitively. In spite of the fact that we are taught from an early age, “don’t judge a book by it’s cover,” we all know that our appearance does indeed make an impression on others.  

In that sense, our appearance becomes a social tool.

We live in a day and age where casualness has gone to an extreme.  We are casual in our manners, in our attitudes, and in how we dress.  This is unfortunate considering the emphasis on “self esteem” which is being taught in our schools.  Our personal grooming habits and choice of clothing announce to others how we really esteem ourselves.

True self respect takes care of oneself and one’s appearance. It takes the time to be neat, clean, and appropriately dressed.  

Why?  Because true self respect is not based on demanding acceptance from others, rather it is based on the knowledge that.…..I am fearfully and wonderfully made.  Psalm 139:14a

The truth of this verse should set us free from needing to prove ourselves to the world, and empower us to get on with more purposeful living.

As Christian women, we need to understand something else.  

We need understand that we are representatives of Christ: to our families, our neighbors, our communities, and beyond.  Because of this we should not be dressing so as to call attention to ourselves and our bodies, but we should dress so as to glorify the one whom we represent.

The Proverbs 31 Woman was not haughty with her wealth, but generous.  

She understood both her place as well as her responsibility to society. 

She took care with her appearance.  

But the real impression she made was not one of stylish dress, rather, this is what is said about her.......