“She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household are clothed with scarlet. She maketh herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing is silk and purple.” Proverbs 31:21,22

“She is not afraid of the snow or of any injuries from the weather. All her household are clothed with scarlet; she hath provided enough, not only for their necessity and defence against cold and other inconveniences, which is here supposed, but also for their delight and ornament; so that not only herself, and husband, and children, but some of the better rank of her servants, wear scarlet; which was more cheap and familiar in those times and countries than now it is with us. Or, as it is rendered in our margin, and by divers others, are clothed with double garments, which is necessary and customary in cold seasons.” (Matthew Poole’s Commentary)

Back in biblical times, they used real materials to clothe themselves, such as cotton, linen, and wool. There was no cheap, toxic polyester made from petroleum. This is the only reason we all have too much clothing, far more than we need!

There are two observations I have about this:

1) Real materials cost more, but they are far better materials to wear. Everything God made is better than man-made. They allow the skin to breathe and have no ill effect on our health or the environment.

2) Since clothing is so much cheaper and easier to buy, we buy too much. It seems quality (God-made fabrics) would be far wiser to buy than quantity (man-made). Then we would be more careful about what we buy. We would actually wear and enjoy our clothing instead of just stuffing our closets with far too many clothes. I have heard we wear 10 percent of our clothing 90 percent of the time. Give the clothes you don’t wear away to someone who may need and enjoy them. Also, be content with the clothes you have. Shopping shouldn’t be a hobby. Shop only when you need something, for godliness with contentment is great gain.

“Coverings of tapestry, for the furniture of her house. Silk and purple, which was very agreeable to her high quality, though it doth not justify that luxury in attire which is now usual among persons of far lower ranks, both for wealth and dignity.” (Matthew Poole’s Commentary)

She beautifies her home by making coverings for her furniture. How do you beautify your home? I love simple and uncluttered. I want those who come into my home to be comfortable. I decorate my walls with Scripture and family pictures, mostly. These are what I treasure. I do my best to keep it clean and tidy.

Remember, the Proverbs 31 woman was a queen. This is why she clothed herself in silk and purple. Purple symbolizes royalty. Now, it’s fine if you want to wear purple silk! There are many women who go to Goodwill stores and find quality clothing there for a fraction of the full price. Clothe your family in the best quality clothing you can afford, but never go into debt over it. Do what you can with what you have.

***Here is the next post in the series: Her Husband is Known in the Gates.

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