Saturday 09 November 2013

Background

These verses are unique in ancient literature in their praise ofa good woman, although reading them today in a very differentculture takes a little care and translation. In a world where womenwere often either invisible or held up for criticism, this passagesings the praise of a woman's strength, dignity and social powerand is particularly remarkable when we remember that the HebrewBible (the Old Testament) normally presents the weaknesses as wellas the strengths of the heroic figures of Israel.

In Hebrew these verses are a poem which begin with succeedingletters of the Hebrew alphabet, which means that the verses areordered to make sure that the lines can begin with 'A-Z' ratherthan according to any kind of logic.

The first verse is a much stronger statement than is apparent inthe NRSV Bible. The Hebrew word translated 'capable' is the wordusually used for physical strength and powerful military action,both traits which ancient literature normally associate with men.It can also be used for material wealth. Ellen Davis suggests thatwe should use the word 'valorous', although I wonder if 'valiant'might also work.

There are times in this poem when the NRSV Bible hides languagein which the Hebrew attributes to this woman, abilities which arenormally associated with men, including the ability to acquiresecurity and goods. For example, in verse 11 the husband does notlack booty (goods acquired through war or raiding), and verse 15refers to prey (acquired through hunting) not simply to food. Addto this the way in which the woman clearly rules her household andhas a public role, and this is a poem which underscores theimportance and value of women in a way which is truly remarkablefor the ancient world.

This woman lived in a very different society to ours and we havelearned to admire different traits than the ones held up here. Butit does seem important to remember that in a world where men wereso often the dominant force and the only ones to be givenattention, Scripture sings the praises of a valiant woman.

To Ponder

• How do you respond to this picture of a valiant woman? Whattraits here do you admire?

• Is there a particular Proverb from today's passage which youcan take with you to ponder during the rest of the day? What is it?And why do you think it jumps out at you?