I am a virtuous woman. My price is far above rubies. The heart of my husband doth safely trust in me, so that he shall have no need of spoil. I will do him good and not evil all the days of my life.
I seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with my hands. I am like the merchants' ships. I bringeth my food from afar. I riseth also while it is yet night and giveth meat to my household and a portion to my maidens.
I considereth a field and buyeth it: with the fruit of my hands I planteth a vineyard. I girdeth my loins with strength and strengtheneth my arms.
I perceiveth that my merchandise is good: my candle goeth not out by night. I layeth my hands to the spindle, and my hands hold the distaff. I stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, I reacheth forth my hands to the needy.
I am not afraid of the snow for my household: for all my household are clothed with scarlet. I maketh myself coverings of tapestry; my clothing is silk and purple.
My husband is known in the gates, when he sitteth among the elders of the land.
I maketh fine linen, and selleth it; and delivereth girdles unto the merchant. Strength and honour are my clothing; and I shall rejoice in time to come. I openeth my mouth with wisdom; and in my tongue is the law of kindness.
I looketh well to the ways of my household, and eateth not the bread of idleness. My children arise up and call me blessed; my husband also, and he praiseth me.
Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all.
Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the Lord, she shall be praised.
Give me the fruit of my hands; and let my own works praise me in the gates.
- Adapted from Proverbs 31 (KJV)
