Summary of Meaning

This verse highlights the diligence and resourcefulness of a virtuous woman, emphasizing her ability to provide for herself and her family through her creative talents. The mention of "fine linen and purple" indicates both quality and status, reflecting the respect and honor in her character.

Insights from Public Domain Commentaries

• Matthew Henry:

  Henry interprets this verse as a testament to the industrious nature of a virtuous wife. He notes that the labor invested in making her own clothing signifies her ability and willingness to contribute to her family's well-being. The "fine linen" symbolizes purity and high moral standing, while "purple" represents nobility and value.

• Albert Barnes:

  Barnes elaborates on the significance of "coverings" as protective and beautiful garments, suggesting that the virtuous woman takes pride in her appearance not for vanity but as an expression of her excellence. The colors also have connotations of wealth and status, indicating the esteem in which she is held.

• Adam Clarke:

  Clarke emphasizes the cultural context of the verse, acknowledging that in biblical times, purple dye was expensive and rare. This detail underscores the woman's capability to provide luxuries in her household, indicating her resourcefulness in securing fine materials. Clarke also connects the crafting of garments to spiritual lessons of covering oneself with righteousness.

Bible Cross-References

Proverbs 31:22 connects with several other scriptures that highlight themes of diligence, virtue, and the value of women. Here are some related verses:

• Proverbs 31:10: "Who can find a virtuous woman? For her price is far above rubies."
• Titus 2:4-5: "Then they can urge the younger women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home..."
• 1 Timothy 5:10: "And well reported for good works; if she has brought up children, if she has lodged strangers, if she has washed the saints' feet..."
• Proverbs 31:25: "Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she smiles at the future."
• 1 Peter 3:3-4: "Your beauty should not come from outward adornment... Rather, it should be that of your inner self..."
• Psalm 31:24: "Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the LORD."
• Luke 12:27: "Consider how the wild flowers grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you, not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these."

Thematic Bible Verse Connections

This verse can be seen in conversation with others that address the virtues of women, their roles in the family and society, and their relationship with diligence and respect:

• Strength and Diligence: Reflected in Proverbs 31:17: "She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks."
• Creativity and Resourcefulness: Related to Exodus 35:25, where skilled workers are recognized for their abilities in making things for the tabernacle.
• Wealth and Prosperity: Paralleled in Deuteronomy 28:12, which speaks about God blessing the work of one's hands.
• Character and Integrity: This is echoed in Proverbs 12:4: "A wife of noble character is her husband's crown, but a disgraceful wife is like decay in his bones."

Cross-Referencing Bible Study

Using tools for Bible cross-referencing can deepen one’s understanding of scripture, especially when studying the virtuous characteristics of women in the Bible. Here are a few tools for Bible cross-referencing that can assist in your study:

• Bible Concordance: Helps locate specific verses and their contexts.
• Bible Cross-Reference Guide: Offers links between related scriptures for thematic study.
• Bible Study Software: Many programs include cross-reference features to explore themes.
• Online Bible Reference Resources: Websites that offer tools for finding connections between verses.
• Bible Chain References: A method for linking Bible verses based on themes or concepts.

Conclusion

Understanding Proverbs 31:22 requires engaging with the text and considering its implications within the broader biblical narrative. The connections and themes identified in the verse serve as an invitation to reflect upon the qualities of diligence, resourcefulness, and virtue in one's own life.

As you explore Bible verse cross-references, consider how this verse interacts with others to paint a fuller picture of the virtuous woman described throughout Proverbs 31 and beyond.