Proverbs 31:11

The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he lacks nothing of value.

Study Bible

The heart of her husband
In the Hebrew text, the word for "heart" is "לֵב" (lev), which often signifies the inner self, including emotions, thoughts, and will. In ancient Hebrew culture, the heart was considered the seat of intellect and emotion. The phrase "the heart of her husband" suggests a deep, intimate connection between the husband and wife, where the husband’s innermost feelings and thoughts are involved. This reflects the biblical ideal of marriage as a union where both partners are deeply intertwined emotionally and spiritually.

trusts in her
The Hebrew word for "trusts" is "בָּטַח" (batach), which conveys a sense of confidence and security. In the context of marriage, this trust is foundational, indicating that the husband has complete confidence in his wife’s abilities, character, and faithfulness. This trust is not merely about reliability in daily tasks but extends to a profound assurance in her moral and spiritual integrity. Historically, this trust would have been essential in a society where the household was a central unit of economic and social life.

and he will lack nothing of value
The phrase "lack nothing of value" in Hebrew is "וְשָׁלָל לֹא יֶחְסָר" (veshalal lo yechsar). "Shalal" refers to spoil or gain, often used in the context of war to describe the bounty taken after a victory. Here, it metaphorically represents the abundance and prosperity that result from the wife’s diligence and wisdom. The husband’s lack of nothing valuable underscores the idea that a virtuous wife contributes significantly to the well-being and prosperity of the household. In a broader biblical context, this reflects the blessings that come from living according to God’s wisdom and design for family life.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Virtuous Wife
The subject of Proverbs 31, often referred to as the "Proverbs 31 Woman," is a model of godly womanhood and virtue. She is depicted as a wife whose character and actions bring honor and trust to her household.

2. The Husband
The husband in this verse is portrayed as a man who places his full confidence in his wife. His trust in her is complete, indicating a deep bond of mutual respect and love.

3. King Lemuel
The author of Proverbs 31 is traditionally identified as King Lemuel, who shares the wisdom taught to him by his mother. This chapter is often seen as a mother's advice to her son on the qualities of a virtuous wife.

4. Ancient Israel
The cultural and historical context of this passage is ancient Israel, where family and household management were central to societal stability and prosperity.

5. Wisdom Literature
Proverbs is part of the wisdom literature in the Bible, which includes teachings on how to live a life pleasing to God through practical and moral instruction.

Teaching Points

Trust as a Foundation
Trust is a cornerstone of a healthy marriage. The virtuous wife earns her husband's trust through her integrity, wisdom, and diligence. In a Christian marriage, both partners should strive to build and maintain trust.

Value Beyond Material Wealth
The phrase "he will lack nothing of value" suggests that the wife's contributions go beyond material wealth. Her character and actions provide spiritual and emotional richness to the household.

Mutual Respect and Partnership
The relationship depicted in Proverbs 31:11 is one of mutual respect and partnership. Both husband and wife have roles that complement each other, reflecting God's design for marriage.

Role of Women in the Household
This verse highlights the significant role women play in the household. A virtuous woman is not only a support to her husband but also a leader in her own right, managing the home with wisdom and care.

Biblical Womanhood
The qualities of the Proverbs 31 woman serve as a model for biblical womanhood, encouraging women to pursue godliness, wisdom, and strength in their daily lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the trust described in Proverbs 31:11 reflect the overall relationship between the husband and wife in this passage?

2. In what ways can modern Christian marriages apply the principles of trust and value found in Proverbs 31:11?

3. How does the concept of trust in a marriage relate to the broader biblical teaching on love and respect between spouses?

4. What are some practical ways a wife can earn and maintain her husband's trust, according to the biblical model?

5. How can the qualities of the Proverbs 31 woman inspire both men and women in their personal and spiritual growth?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 12:4
This verse also speaks of a virtuous wife as a crown to her husband, emphasizing the honor and dignity she brings to him.

1 Peter 3:1-6
This passage discusses the conduct of wives, encouraging them to be respectful and pure, which aligns with the trust and value described in Proverbs 31:11.

Ephesians 5:22-33
This section of Scripture outlines the relationship between husbands and wives, highlighting mutual love and respect, which is foundational to the trust mentioned in Proverbs 31:11.