Proverbs 31:10 – King James Version (KJV)
<10> Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies.
In the context of Proverbs 31:10 from the King James Version, virtue is often understood as the sum of qualities that define a person’s moral excellence. The verse, which opens a passage commonly known as the “Virtuous Woman” or “Wife of Noble Character” section, extols the value and capabilities of a woman who embodies these virtues, suggesting that her worth is incomparable and exceeds material wealth. Interpretations of this passage have varied, with some viewing it as a celebration of the domestic and economic contributions of a wife, while others critique it as a product of its time with a potentially patriarchal perspective. The concept of virtue in a sinner can be seen as the inherent potential for goodness and moral rectitude that exists within every individual, regardless of their past actions or current state. It implies that even those who have sinned hold the capacity for virtuous behaviour and redemption. This view encourages a compassionate understanding of human fallibility and the transformative power of virtue.
Personally though, I think this is referring to the secret of the divine feminine that has been hidden by the Christian paternal view. It’s interesting that Mary has not been mentioned, as potentially one of the few women of virtue that would be recognised by a Christian. And for my own way of thinking, we also have Mary Magdalene. The reason I say this is that this sentence uses the word find, and in there is something to be found. I also think that virtue is a completion, not a potential. So this is said, who can find a sin-free woman, that is worth more than rubies? Now, why would we place a material value on a woman when all women are priceless? So again, there is a hidden meaning here.
The passage speaks of a “virtuous woman” whose value “is far above rubies,” suggesting a comparison between the moral and spiritual worth of a virtuous woman and the material value of precious stones. This juxtaposition serves to elevate the concept of virtue above worldly riches, emphasizing that the qualities of a virtuous individual are priceless and surpass even the most sought-after earthly treasures.
Rubies are known for their rarity and beauty, often associated with qualities such as passion, protection, and prosperity. In the context of this proverb, the ruby could be seen as representing the pinnacle of worldly value, which is still inferior to the intrinsic worth of virtue. This interpretation aligns with the broader themes in religious texts that prioritize spiritual richness over material wealth.
The suggestion that the verse seeks a “sin-free woman” and could be referencing the divine feminine within a paternalistic religious framework opens up a fascinating avenue for exploration. The divine feminine is a concept that has been recognised in various religious and spiritual traditions, representing the feminine aspects of the divine. It is often associated with creation, nurturing, and fertility, embodying the life-giving and sustaining forces of nature.
In Christianity, figures such as the Virgin Mary and Mary Magdalene have been revered for their purity and closeness to the divine. The Virgin Mary, in particular, is celebrated for her role as the mother of Jesus Christ and is often depicted as the epitome of virtue and grace. Mary Magdalene, too, has been the subject of much theological discussion, with some traditions recognizing her as a symbol of redemption and profound discipleship.
The interpretation of the “virtuous woman” in this verse as a metaphor for the divine feminine suggests a recognition of the sacred within the feminine, an acknowledgment that transcends the literal reading of the text. It invites believers to seek the divine not only in the heavens but also within the virtues and qualities of individuals, particularly women, who embody the principles of their faith.
This perspective encourages a more profound understanding of religious teachings, one that values the contributions and roles of women within the spiritual narrative. It challenges the notion of a solely paternalistic religion by highlighting the presence and importance of the feminine divine. Such an interpretation fosters a more inclusive and holistic view of spirituality, where the divine is reflected in the full spectrum of human experience, encompassing both masculine and feminine qualities.
In conclusion, the symbolism of rubies can be seen as a powerful metaphor for the immeasurable worth of virtue, particularly as it relates to the divine feminine. It serves as a reminder that true value is not found in material possessions but in the qualities that define one’s character and spirit. This verse, therefore, can be understood as an invitation to recognise and honour the divine within the virtuous, an endeavour that enriches one’s spiritual journey.
