Chapter
31
The words of queen Lemuel; the oracle which her father taught her.
"Oh, my daughter! Oh, daughter of my womb! Oh, daughter of my vows!
Don't give your strength to men, nor your ways to that which destroys queens.
It is not for queens, Lemuel; it is not for queens to drink wine; nor for princesses to say, 'Where is strong drink?'
lest they drink, and forget the law, and pervert the justice due to anyone who is afflicted.
Give strong drink to her who is ready to perish; and wine to the bitter in soul:
Let her drink, and forget her poverty, and remember her misery no more.
Open your mouth for the mute, in the cause of all who are left desolate.
Open your mouth, judge righteously, and serve justice to the poor and needy."
Who can find a worthy man? For his price is far above rubies.
The heart of his wife trusts in him. She shall have no lack of gain.
He does her good, and not harm, all the days of his life.
He seeks wool and flax, and works eagerly with his hands.
He is like the merchant ships. He brings his bread from afar.
He rises also while it is yet night, gives food to his household, and portions for his servant boys.
He considers a field, and buys it. With the fruit of his hands, he plants a vineyard.
He girds his waist with strength, and makes his arms strong.
He perceives that his merchandise is profitable. His lamp doesn't go out by night.
He lays his hands to the distaff, and his hands hold the spindle.
He opens his arms to the poor; yes, he extends his hands to the needy.
He is not afraid of the snow for his household; for all his household are clothed with scarlet.
He makes for himself carpets of tapestry. His clothing is fine linen and purple.
His wife is respected in the gates, when she sits among the elders of the land.
He makes linen garments and sells them, and delivers sashes to the merchant.
Strength and dignity are his clothing. He laughs at the time to come.
He opens his mouth with wisdom. Faithful instruction is on his tongue.
He looks well to the ways of his household, and doesn't eat the bread of idleness.
His children rise up and call him blessed. His wife also praises him:
"Many men do noble things, but you excel them all."
Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain; but a man who fears Yahweh, he shall be praised.
Give him of the fruit of his hands! Let his works praise him in the gates!