Proverbs 31:29
Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all.
Original Language Analysis
רַבּ֣וֹת
Many
H7227
רַבּ֣וֹת
Many
Strong's:
H7227
Word #:
1 of 8
abundant (in quantity, size, age, number, rank, quality)
בָּ֭נוֹת
daughters
H1323
בָּ֭נוֹת
daughters
Strong's:
H1323
Word #:
2 of 8
a daughter (used in the same wide sense as other terms of relationship, literally and figuratively)
עָ֣שׂוּ
have done
H6213
עָ֣שׂוּ
have done
Strong's:
H6213
Word #:
3 of 8
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
חָ֑יִל
virtuously
H2428
חָ֑יִל
virtuously
Strong's:
H2428
Word #:
4 of 8
probably a force, whether of men, means or other resources; an army, wealth, virtue, valor, strength
עָלִ֥ית
but thou excellest
H5927
עָלִ֥ית
but thou excellest
Strong's:
H5927
Word #:
6 of 8
to ascend, intransitively (be high) or actively (mount); used in a great variety of senses, primary and secondary, literal and figurative
Historical Context
Public praise from a husband in ancient culture carried significant weight, especially in the civic setting of 'the gates' (v.23). His declaration that she surpasses all other capable women elevates her as an exemplar of wisdom's fruit, validating her life's faithful labor before the community.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you respond to excellence in others—with jealous comparison or grateful inspiration?
- What would it mean to pursue superlative faithfulness in your calling, not for competitive glory but covenant love?
- In what practical ways might you honor those whose character genuinely excels, pointing others to emulate wisdom?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all—The ר (resh) line contains the husband's direct praise (continuing from v.28). Banot (daughters) here means capable women generally, and asu chayil (have done valiantly) uses the same root as eshet chayil (v.10). He acknowledges that many women demonstrate excellence, but his wife surpasses them all (alith al-kulanah).
This isn't generic flattery but specific recognition of superlative character. The husband's praise completes the acrostic poem's portrait: a woman of strength (v.10), industry (vv.13-19), generosity (v.20), wisdom (v.26), and faithful diligence (v.27). Her excellence isn't comparative rivalry but covenant faithfulness that outshines even other virtuous women. Proverbs celebrates her not to shame others but to inspire emulation of wisdom's ways.