Proverbs 31 is one of the most emblematic chapters of ancient wisdom, offering a portrait of virtue, effort, and excellence in daily life. Attributed to King Solomon, this poetic text not only describes the "virtuous woman" but also presents a model of life based on eternal principles of diligence, justice, and love. But how can we interpret this chapter in light of restored truths and the principles revealed in the canonical scriptures? How does it relate to the philosophy and thought of some of Italy’s greatest thinkers?
First, the concept of virtue in Proverbs 31 is not limited to the figure of a woman alone. While the passage describes a diligent and wise wife, the principles it mentions apply to anyone who seeks to live according to the divine will. In verses 10 and 11, we read: “Who can find a virtuous woman? For her price is far above rubies. The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil.” This passage highlights the trust and security that stem from virtue. In Doctrine and Covenants 121:45, we find a similar principle: “Let thy bowels also be full of charity towards all men, and to the household of faith, and let virtue garnish thy thoughts unceasingly.” Virtue, understood not only as purity but as strength and moral power, is the foundation of a life centered on divine principles.
The Italian philosopher Thomas Aquinas, in his work Summa Theologica, emphasized that virtue is a good habit that perfects human nature and directs it toward the supreme good. In this sense, Proverbs 31 not only describes virtue as a desirable quality but as the path to true prosperity and peace. Aquinas also taught that faith and reason should not be in conflict but should complement each other in the pursuit of divine knowledge. When observing the virtuous woman in Proverbs, we see that her wisdom and diligence come not only from her labor but from her relationship with God. This is similar to what is taught in 2 Nephi 2:26: “And the Messiah cometh in the fulness of time, that he may redeem the children of men from the fall.” True virtue can only be found in a relationship with the Savior and His redeeming grace.
Diligence is also a central theme in Proverbs 31. Verses 17 and 18 state: “She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms. She perceiveth that her merchandise is good: her candle goeth not out by night.” This call to labor and constant effort resonates with modern revelation, which emphasizes that prosperity comes as a result of honest work and personal effort. In Doctrine and Covenants 58:27-28, it is taught that men should “be anxiously engaged in a good cause, and do many things of their own free will, and bring to pass much righteousness.” Virtue is not a gift received passively but a quality that is developed through effort and perseverance.
The Italian Renaissance philosopher Giordano Bruno, though controversial in his time, defended the idea that the universe was infinite and that human knowledge should constantly expand. From a spiritual perspective, this can be compared to the need to seek wisdom and continuous growth. Proverbs 31 describes a person who does not settle for mediocrity but constantly seeks to improve and make their home and surroundings prosper. In a broader sense, this reminds us of the invitation in Alma 37:6: “By small and simple things are great things brought to pass.”
The chapter concludes with a fundamental truth: outward beauty is fleeting, but the fear of the Lord is what truly defines a person’s character. Proverbs 31:30 declares: “Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the Lord, she shall be praised.” In a world obsessed with image and appearances, this teaching is more relevant than ever. True greatness is not found in fame or superficial recognition but in devotion to eternal principles. In Mosiah 2:17, we find an echo of this teaching: “When ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God.” Greatness is measured by one’s willingness to serve and love others with a sincere heart.
Proverbs 31, far from being merely a tribute to the virtuous woman, is a model of life based on effort, wisdom, and a relationship with God. Its message is timeless and universal, applicable to anyone seeking a life of purpose and meaning. Throughout history, thinkers like Thomas Aquinas and Giordano Bruno have reflected on the role of virtue, knowledge, and diligence in human life, and their philosophy, in many ways, aligns with the principles revealed in the scriptures. Ultimately, this chapter reminds us that the true reward is not found in the applause of the world but in the peace and confidence that come from a righteous and consecrated life.
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