PRICED ABOVE RUBIES

The book of proverbs is based on metaphor and proverbs 31 provides a detailed metaphor of feminine wisdom in the context of a family and a community. The most quoted section, verses 10-31 is a chiastic poem. It speaks of the worth of a woman that is priced above rubies i.e. the worth of a good wife to her husband, her ability to provide for a family, the manual labor she does and her wisdom in caring for herself so she can share her strength with others.
Why is that woman priced above rubies, of all the gemstone? Rubies are distinguished for their bright color, being the most famed and fabled, a stone of nobility, most magnificent of all gems, the queen of stones and stones of kings. It values even exceeds that of the diamond.
A woman priced above rubies is a virtuous woman, a valiant and worthy woman, a woman of noble character and an excellent spirit, a capable and diligent woman.
A diligent woman- she isn’t afraid of work. She gets up in the morning and gets things done. She can take pain in her duties and pleasure in them as well. Taking care of our responsibilities is characteristic of wisdom. Do not falter on your responsibilities, finish it in a timely manner without procrastinating.
An excellent woman- she is intelligent and well-informed. she is educated about the world and the world of business. She knows how to use her skills to provide for her family. She is wise to the ways of the world, but lives by the wisdom of God. Be prudent in spending money and use your earth’s resources wisely.
A woman of noble character- she has the grace to help others. she ensures that those under her care receive what they need (food, clothing, protection etc.). she is intent upon giving freely and cheerfully. While you should not ignore your own needs, you should think highly of the needs of others and be there to take care of those needs when you can.
A valiant and worthy woman- she is brave and courageous. She partners with her husband to get things done, looks out for his interest and give him the security that is lacking in this world. She is worth more than a substantial paycheck.
A virtuous woman- she makes sure her appearance reflects her respected position as an influence in her community. Let your outward beauty reflect your inner beauty. For beauty to be complete, outward beauty must harmonize with inward beauty to be whole. A virtuous woman always fears God.
How any individual woman exemplifies these characteristics will depend on her situation, gifts and abilities. Be a daughter polished after the similitude of a palace. Be:
P-Principled
R-Right-minded
I-Inculpable
C-Chaste
E-Excellent
D-Decorous

A-Angelic
B-Blameless
O-Open
V-Virginal
E-Ethical

R-Respectable
U-Untainted
B-Beneficial
Y-Youthful