Proverbs 31:21
She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household are clothed with scarlet.
Original Language Analysis
לֹא
H3808
לֹא
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
1 of 9
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
תִירָ֣א
She is not afraid
H3372
תִירָ֣א
She is not afraid
Strong's:
H3372
Word #:
2 of 9
to fear; morally to revere; causatively to frighten
בֵּ֝יתָ֗הּ
for all her household
H1004
בֵּ֝יתָ֗הּ
for all her household
Strong's:
H1004
Word #:
3 of 9
a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)
כִּ֥י
H3588
כִּ֥י
Strong's:
H3588
Word #:
5 of 9
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
כָל
H3605
כָל
Strong's:
H3605
Word #:
6 of 9
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
בֵּ֝יתָ֗הּ
for all her household
H1004
בֵּ֝יתָ֗הּ
for all her household
Strong's:
H1004
Word #:
7 of 9
a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)
Historical Context
In ancient Palestine's climate, winter could bring harsh conditions requiring adequate clothing and shelter. The ability to clothe one's entire household in quality garments demonstrated both prosperity and prudent management. Scarlet/crimson dyes were expensive, but the term here emphasizes durability and warmth rather than luxury.
Questions for Reflection
- What 'winter seasons' of life do you face with fear rather than faithful preparation?
- How does Proverbs' vision of diligence producing peace challenge both anxious striving and presumptuous passivity?
- In what areas might you need to invest present labor to create future security for those in your care?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household are clothed with scarlet—The ש (shin) line depicts providential foresight. Sheleg (snow) was rare in ancient Israel but represents winter cold and hardship. The eshet chayil feels no fear (lo tira) because her planning ensures readiness. Shanim (scarlet) likely refers to quality double-thickness garments, not merely color—warm, durable clothing.
This verse reveals that diligence produces peace. Anxiety springs from unpreparedness, but faithful labor yields confident rest. Proverbs contrasts the sluggard who experiences want (20:4, 24:30-34) with the diligent whose household thrives. Her lack of fear demonstrates trust in God's providence working through human responsibility—neither presumptuous passivity nor anxious self-reliance.