Proverbs 31:14, "She is like the merchant ships. She brings her bread from afar," is a beautiful and evocative line that highlights the industriousness and resourcefulness of the "woman of noble character" being described in the chapter. Let's break down its meaning:
"She is like the merchant ships": Merchant ships were vital for trade and commerce. They traveled long distances, often facing risks, to bring goods from distant lands to their home ports. Comparing the woman to these ships emphasizes her proactiveness, diligence, and ability to secure provisions from various sources, not just relying on what's readily available.
"She brings her bread from afar": "Bread" here symbolizes sustenance, nourishment, and everything needed to support her household. "From afar" suggests she is willing to go beyond the immediate vicinity, putting in extra effort to obtain the best resources and ensure her family is well-provided for. It implies she is not limited by local availability but actively seeks opportunities to acquire what she needs, even if it requires more effort.
In essence, the verse signifies:
Hard work and diligence: The woman is not passive; she actively seeks ways to provide for her family.
Resourcefulness: She is not limited by local resources but is willing to look further afield for better opportunities.
Foresight and planning: She anticipates her family's needs and takes steps to ensure they are met.
Proactive approach: She doesn't wait for things to come to her; she goes out and gets them.
Strategic thinking: She understands the value of trade and commerce and uses them to her advantage.
The verse celebrates the woman's ability to secure her family's well-being through hard work, resourcefulness, and strategic thinking, much like a merchant ship bringing valuable goods from faraway lands.
Proverbs 31:14, "She is like the merchant ships. She brings her bread from afar," is a beautiful and evocative line that highlights the industriousness and resourcefulness of the "woman of noble character" being described in the chapter. Let's break down its meaning:
"She is like the merchant ships": Merchant ships were vital for trade and commerce. They traveled long distances, often facing risks, to bring goods from distant lands to their home ports. Comparing the woman to these ships emphasizes her proactiveness, diligence, and ability to secure provisions from various sources, not just relying on what's readily available.
"She brings her bread from afar": "Bread" here symbolizes sustenance, nourishment, and everything needed to support her household. "From afar" suggests she is willing to go beyond the immediate vicinity, putting in extra effort to obtain the best resources and ensure her family is well-provided for. It implies she is not limited by local availability but actively seeks opportunities to acquire what she needs, even if it requires more effort.
In essence, the verse signifies:
Hard work and diligence: The woman is not passive; she actively seeks ways to provide for her family.
Resourcefulness: She is not limited by local resources but is willing to look further afield for better opportunities.
Foresight and planning: She anticipates her family's needs and takes steps to ensure they are met.
Proactive approach: She doesn't wait for things to come to her; she goes out and gets them.
Strategic thinking: She understands the value of trade and commerce and uses them to her advantage.
The verse celebrates the woman's ability to secure her family's well-being through hard work, resourcefulness, and strategic thinking, much like a merchant ship bringing valuable goods from faraway lands.