Something struck me when checking the Hebrew term translated as “virtuous” in Proverbs 31:10 in the KJV and “excellent” in the ESV. The word is ‘chayil‘ and means “strength, valor, force, substance, might, etc”.
In Prov 31:17, this same woman is described as being clothed in strength. This time the word is ‘oz‘ and literally means “power, might and majesty” and is usually used to describe God’s glory.
This is contrary to the image of a Christian woman being a docile, subdued, inferior, silent, subservient doormat without a mind of her own or opportunity and encouragement to express it.
Instead this is a confident, capable, impressive, woman of force and substance. She should be celebrated, honoured and praised, not just on mothers day but every day.
