10 *31:10 The following verses are written as an acrostic poem (each of the twenty-two verses begins with a successive letter of the Hebrew alphabet). Aside from the artistry, the acrostic structure also aided memorization.An excellent woman [one who is spiritual, capable, intelligent, and virtuous], who is he who can find her?

Her value is more precious than jewels and her worth is far above rubies or pearls. [Prov 12:4; 18:22; 19:14]

11 The heart of her husband trusts in her [with secure confidence],

And he will have no lack of gain.

12 She comforts, encourages, and does him only good and not evil

All the days of her life.

13 She looks for wool and flax

And works with willing hands in delight.

14 She is like the merchant ships [abounding with treasure];

She brings her [household’s] food from far away.

15 She rises also while it is still night

And gives food to her household

And assigns tasks to her maids. [Job 23:12]

16 She considers a field before she buys or accepts it [expanding her business prudently];

With her profits she plants fruitful vines in her vineyard.

17 She equips herself with strength [spiritual, mental, and physical fitness for her God-given task]

And makes her arms strong.

18 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].

19 She stretches out her hands to the *31:19 I.e. the staff that holds the textile fibers for spinning.distaff,

And her hands hold the spindle [as she spins wool into thread for clothing].

20 She opens and extends her hand to the poor,

And she reaches out her filled hands to the needy.