“Let your fountain (wife) be blessed [with the rewards of fidelity],And rejoice in the wife of your youth.”
Introduction
King Solomon and the Book of Proverbs
King Solomon was the third king of Israel, renowned for his unparalleled wisdom, wealth, and extensive writings. Son of King David and Bathsheba, Solomon reigned during Israel's golden age, overseeing the construction of the First Temple in Jerusalem. His wisdom is legendary, with many seeking his counsel, and he is credited with authoring several biblical texts, including the Book of Proverbs.
The Book of Proverbs is a compilation of wise sayings and teachings attributed primarily to King Solomon. This biblical book is part of the Old Testament and is known for its practical guidance on how to live a righteous and prudent life. Proverbs covers various topics, including morality, family, work, and personal conduct, often contrasting the behaviors of the wise and the foolish. It emphasizes the importance of wisdom, understanding, and the fear of the Lord as foundational principles for a fulfilling life.
It's remarkable how much the book of Proverbs has to say about wives. Considering its author, King Solomon, who had 700 wives, this shouldn't come as a surprise. In his writings, Solomon shares the insights he gained from his experiences.
Now Let’s Eat Some Meat!
Solomon stated, “He who finds a [true and faithful] wife finds a good thing And obtains favor and approval from the Lord” (18:22). He emphasized that “House and wealth are the inheritance from fathers, But a wise, understanding, and sensible wife is [a gift and blessing] from the Lord.” (19:14). Solomon also wrote “Let your fountain (wife) be blessed [with the rewards of fidelity],And rejoice in the wife of your youth.” (5:18), highlighting the enduring long lasting pleasure of a good marriage.
Solomon also clearly understood the challenges of a contentious relationship, writing “And the contentions of a [quarrelsome] wife are like a constant dripping [of water].” (19:13). He observed, “It is better to live in a corner of the housetop [on the flat roof, exposed to the weather] Than in a house shared with a quarrelsome (contentious) woman.” (21:9) and “It is better to dwell in a desert land Than with a contentious and troublesome woman.” (21:19). He reiterated, “A constant dripping on a day of steady rain And a contentious (quarrelsome) woman are alike;” (27:15).
Another theme in Proverbs is the wayward or immoral wife. Solomon spoke of her flattering, seductive words, “...From the seductress with her flattering words,“ (2:16) and her smooth tongue, “...From [the flattery of] the smooth tongue of an immoral woman.“ (6:24), cautioning against the dangers of infidelity, “So is the one who goes in to his neighbor’s wife; Whoever touches her will not be found innocent or go unpunished.“ (6:29). Further Solomon added, “But she who shames him [with her foolishness] is like rottenness in his bones” (12:4).
The Book of Proverbs concludes its wisdom with the famous description of the ideal wife in Proverbs 31. If you haven't read it recently, or not at all, it's worth revisiting or reading for the first time. It begins, in verse 10 with “An excellent woman [one who is spiritual, capable, intelligent, and virtuous], who is he who can find her?” and then continues with “Her value is more precious than jewels and her worth is far above rubies or pearls.” What follows is a model for all wives. “The heart of her husband trusts in her [with secure confidence], And he will have no lack of gain. She comforts, encourages, and does him only good and not evil All the days of her life. She looks for wool and flax And works with willing hands in delight. She is like the merchant ships [abounding with treasure]; She brings her [household’s] food from far away. She rises also while it is still night And gives food to her household And assigns tasks to her maids. She considers a field before she buys or accepts it [expanding her business prudently]; With her profits she plants fruitful vines in her vineyard. She equips herself with strength [spiritual, mental, and physical fitness for her God-given task] And makes her arms strong. She sees that her gain is good; Her lamp does not go out, but it burns continually through the night [she is prepared for whatever lies ahead]. She stretches out her hands to the distaff, And her hands hold the spindle [as she spins wool into thread for clothing]. She opens and extends her hand to the poor, And she reaches out her filled hands to the needy. She does not fear the snow for her household, For all in her household are clothed in [expensive] scarlet [wool]. She makes for herself coverlets, cushions, and rugs of tapestry.Her clothing is linen, pure and fine, and purple [wool]. Her husband is known in the [city’s] gates, When he sits among the elders of the land. She makes [fine] linen garments and sells them; And supplies sashes to the merchants. Strength and dignity are her clothing and her position is strong and secure; And she smiles at the future [knowing that she and her family are prepared]. She opens her mouth in [skillful and godly] wisdom, And the teaching of kindness is on her tongue [giving counsel and instruction]. She looks well to how things go in her household,And does not eat the bread of idleness. Her children rise up and call her blessed (happy, prosperous, to be admired); Her husband also, and he praises her, saying, “Many daughters have done nobly, and well [with the strength of character that is steadfast in goodness], But you excel them all.” Charm and grace are deceptive, and [superficial] beauty is vain, But a woman who fears the Lord [reverently worshiping, obeying, serving, and trusting Him with awe-filled respect], she shall be praised. Give her of the product of her hands, And let her own works praise her in the gates [of the city].” (Proverbs 31:11-31)
Summary
Take it from Solomon, a man of great experience:“A virtuous and excellent wife [worthy of honor] is the crown of her husband,” (12:4) From Solomon's extensive experience and wisdom, it's clear that a virtuous, wise, and understanding wife is invaluable, bringing blessings and honor to her husband and family.
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