Eshet Hayil

A woman of strength, who can find? Her worth is far beyond pearls. Her husband’s heart trusts in her, and he has no lack of gain. She brings him good, not harm, all the days of her life. She seeks wool and linen, and works with willing hands. She is like a ship laden with merchandise, bringing her food from afar. She rises while it is still night, providing food for her household, portions for her maids. She considers a field and buys it; from her earnings she plants a vineyard. She girds herself with strength, and braces her arms for her tasks. She sees that her business goes well; her lamp does not go out at night. She holds the distaff in her hand, and grasps the spindle with her palms. She reaches out her palm to the poor, and extends her hand to the needy. She has no fear for her family when it snows, for all her household is clothed in crimson wool. She makes elegant coverings; her clothing is fine linen and purple wool. Her husband is well known in the gates, where he sits with the elders of the land. She makes linen garments and sells them, and supplies merchants with sashes. She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the law of kindness is on her tongue. She watches over the ways of her household, and never eats the bread of idleness. Her children rise and call her happy; her husband also praises her: “Many women have excelled, but you surpass them all.” Charm is deceptive and beauty vain: it is the God-fearing woman who deserves praise. Give her the reward she has earned; let her deeds bring her praise in the gates.