Proverbs 31 - King Lemuel vs. Proverbs 31 - Virtuous Woman

Attribute	Proverbs 31 - King Lemuel	Proverbs 31 - Virtuous Woman
Author	King Lemuel	Unknown
Focus	Advice from a mother to a son	Description of an ideal woman
Characteristics	Strength, justice, defending the poor	Hardworking, wise, kind, charitable
Occupation	Ruler	Homemaker, businesswoman
Relationship	Advice from mother	Advice for women

Introduction

Proverbs 31 is a chapter in the Bible that contains two distinct sections: one addressed to King Lemuel and the other describing the attributes of a virtuous woman. While both sections offer wisdom and guidance, they focus on different aspects of life and character. In this article, we will compare the attributes of King Lemuel and the virtuous woman as described in Proverbs 31.

King Lemuel

The first section of Proverbs 31 is addressed to King Lemuel, who is advised by his mother to avoid indulging in wine and women. She warns him of the dangers of giving his strength to those who will cause him to forget the law and pervert justice. King Lemuel is urged to speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves and to defend the rights of the poor and needy. He is encouraged to seek wisdom and to rule with justice and righteousness.

Virtuous Woman

The second section of Proverbs 31 describes the attributes of a virtuous woman, who is praised for her strength, wisdom, and kindness. She is depicted as a hard worker who rises early to provide for her household and manages her affairs with diligence. The virtuous woman is described as a woman of noble character who is respected by her husband and children. She is known for her generosity and compassion towards others.

Comparison

While King Lemuel is advised to avoid certain vices and to rule with justice, the virtuous woman is praised for her virtues and her ability to care for her family. Both King Lemuel and the virtuous woman are encouraged to seek wisdom and to act with integrity. However, their roles and responsibilities differ, with King Lemuel being a ruler and the virtuous woman being a caregiver and homemaker.

Similarities

• Both King Lemuel and the virtuous woman are encouraged to seek wisdom.
• Both are advised to act with integrity and righteousness.
• Both are praised for their strength and character.

Differences

• King Lemuel is advised to avoid certain vices, while the virtuous woman is praised for her virtues.
• King Lemuel is urged to rule with justice, while the virtuous woman is commended for her care and compassion towards her family.
• King Lemuel's responsibilities are more focused on leadership and governance, while the virtuous woman's responsibilities are centered around her household and family.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Proverbs 31 offers valuable insights into the attributes of King Lemuel and the virtuous woman. While both are encouraged to seek wisdom and act with integrity, their roles and responsibilities differ significantly. King Lemuel is advised to rule with justice and avoid certain vices, while the virtuous woman is praised for her virtues and her care for her family. Both serve as examples of character and virtue, demonstrating the importance of wisdom, integrity, and compassion in different aspects of life.