31:25–27

This paragraph further describes the wife in terms of her character, reputation, and attitude (v. 25). It then describes the way she talks (v. 26) and the way she cares for her household (v. 27).

31:25

25a Strength and honor are her clothing,

25b and she can laugh at the days to come.

31:25a

Strength and honor are her clothing: This line describes her character and reputation in the community. It is a figure of speech. A person can easily see the quality of clothing that someone wears. Similarly, they can see the kind of person the wife is by the energetic way in which she works, her character, and her reputation. Some other ways to translate this figure of speech are:

• Change it to a simile. For example:

Her strength and dignity ⌊can be seen like⌋ the clothes she wears.

• Translate the meaning without a figure of speech. For example:

She is strong and respected (Good News Translation)

Strength: In Hebrew, this word for Strength can refer to physical or military strength or power. It can also refer to “strong” character. A person with a strong character consistently does what is good and right. If possible, translate this word in a way that indicates both kinds of strength. In some languages, it may be necessary to use more than one word or phrase. For example:

her body is strong and her behavior is consistently good
-or-
she is energetic and she persists in doing what is right no matter what happens

honor: The word honor refers here to the woman’s reputation. It means that people respect her. Another way to translate this word is:

and is respected by the people (New Century Version)

31:25b

she can laugh at the days to come: This line describes her cheerful and confident attitude about the future. Some other ways to translate this line are:

she smiles ⌊when she thinks⌋ about the future (The Voice)
-or-
She looks forward to the future with joy. (New Century Version)
-or-
and not afraid of the future (Good News Translation)

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