13 She selects wool and flax and works with eager hands.14 She is like the merchant ships, bringing her food from afar.15 She gets up while it is still night; she provides food for her family and portions for her female servants.16 She considers a field and buys it; out of her earnings she plants a vineyard. 17 She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks.18 She sees that her trading is profitable, and her lamp does not go out at night.19 In her hand she holds the distaff and grasps the spindle with her fingers.
These verses are central in the discussion about the famous “virtuous woman” or “wife of noble character” (:10-31). The focus here is on her knowledge, skills and industrious nature (:17-18) – she can get ‘er done!
The “wool and flax” mentioned probably came from her own flocks and fields (:13). She has the knowledge to choose the best as well as the skill and industry to weave both into whatever she wanted to make (:19).
The abilities of this lady enabled her to also go out and find the food necessary to feed her family (:14). Back home, she was also willing to get up as early as necessary to insure there was sufficient on the table for everyone every day (:15). Admittedly, she probably didn’t do all the cooking, but she insured they had what they needed.
Sounds like she was capable of running a pretty big operation there at the homestead (:15). But she was also a business woman with the knowledge and skill to check out and purchase an appropriate field nearby to grow additional food for her growing operation at home.
Yet, she was hardworking and industrious enough to go out and plant a vineyard, herself (:16).
I’m not sure what her husband was doing while she was doing all this stuff…but she was one impressive lady! Blessed was the guy who married her!
I’m happy to report I got me one of these – 40 years and counting!