Proverbs 31:20
She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy.
Original Language Analysis
כַּ֭פָּהּ
her hand
H3709
כַּ֭פָּהּ
her hand
Strong's:
H3709
Word #:
1 of 6
the hollow hand or palm (so of the paw of an animal, of the sole, and even of the bowl of a dish or sling, the handle of a bolt, the leaves of a palm-
וְ֝יָדֶ֗יהָ
her hands
H3027
וְ֝יָדֶ֗יהָ
her hands
Strong's:
H3027
Word #:
4 of 6
a hand (the open one [indicating power, means, direction, etc.], in distinction from h3709, the closed one); used (as noun, adverb, etc.) in a great v
Cross References
Ephesians 4:28Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth.Hebrews 13:16But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.Proverbs 19:17He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the LORD; and that which he hath given will he pay him again.Proverbs 22:9He that hath a bountiful eye shall be blessed; for he giveth of his bread to the poor.Psalms 41:1Blessed is he that considereth the poor: the LORD will deliver him in time of trouble.Romans 12:13Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality.Deuteronomy 15:11For the poor shall never cease out of the land: therefore I command thee, saying, Thou shalt open thine hand wide unto thy brother, to thy poor, and to thy needy, in thy land.Psalms 112:9He hath dispersed, he hath given to the poor; his righteousness endureth for ever; his horn shall be exalted with honour.
Historical Context
Ancient Israelite society lacked institutional welfare systems, making personal and family charity essential for the poor's survival. The Law commanded provision for the poor through gleaning rights, sabbatical year releases, and direct generosity (Leviticus 19:9-10, Deuteronomy 15:7-11). The valiant woman embodies Torah's ethical vision.
Questions for Reflection
- How does your labor create capacity for generosity toward those in need, or does productivity serve only self-interest?
- What is the relationship between economic competence and moral obligation to the poor in your understanding of stewardship?
- In what practical ways can you 'stretch out your hand' to the afflicted in your community this week?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy—The ק (qoph) line shifts from industry to charity. The same hands that worked spindle and distaff (v.19) now extend to the ani (poor/afflicted) and evyon (needy/destitute). The parallel verbs (paresah—stretch out; shalchah—reach forth) emphasize active, intentional generosity, not passive goodwill.
This verse reveals that the eshet chayil's productivity serves purposes beyond family enrichment—her labor generates surplus for covenant mercy. Proverbs consistently links wisdom with care for the poor (14:31, 19:17, 22:9). Her economic competence doesn't breed selfish accumulation but generous distribution. True prosperity liberates for generosity; poverty of spirit hoards even in abundance.