Proverbs was generally written from the perspective of father-to-son and is the basis of understanding this ancient wise saying. It says a good wife (“wife of noble character”) makes her husband look good (“is her husband’s crown”).
A crown is symbolic of authority and power. It enhances a man’s appearance in the eyes of others. This proverb is actually an ancient version of our modern wise saying, “behind every good man stands a good woman.”
But the verse suggests the opposite is also true. A bad wife (“disgraceful”) is to her husband “like decay in his bones.” Her attitudes or actions can ruin his life like a disease can destroy his body.
Consequently, with so much at stake, it’s important for us – whether man or woman – to make good choices about future mates. The best way to live in the first part of this verse – and not the second – is to let God lead us to the right partner.
Of course, this verse is guy talk – man-to-man advice. But a mother would communicate the same to her daughter. Either way, one of the best decisions we can make in this life is to marry a spouse of “noble character.”
So, for us guys, the best way to do this is to stop focusing on finding the right woman…and start focusing on being the right man. When we’re the man we’re supposed to be, God will make sure the right woman finds us!
Just for the record, the verse is not saying that this wife treats him like a king – serving him hand and foot. Instead, she is the kind of lady that, by the way she lives, makes her husband appear (and hopefully act!) like a leader of others.