Proverbs 31:14 Meaning and Explanation
“She is like the merchants' ships; she bringeth her food from afar.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Like trading vessels, she brings sustenance and goods from distant sources.
The Context of Proverbs 31:14
She demonstrates the resourcefulness and enterprise of a merchant trader.
What Does Proverbs 31:14 Mean?
This metaphor compares her to merchant ships—vessels that venture far, undertake risk, and return with valuable goods. She 'brings her food from afar,' suggesting she does not merely accept what her household produces but extends her reach. She may engage in trade, long-distance relationships, or strategic acquisition.
The image conveys resourcefulness, enterprise, and confidence in unfamiliar terrain. She is not confined to her doorstep but acts with the boldness of a merchant navigator. This suggests economic sophistication—she understands markets, sources, and value.
Frequently Asked Questions About Proverbs 31:14
What does Proverbs 31:14 mean?
Like trading vessels, she brings sustenance and goods from distant sources.
What is the context of Proverbs 31:14?
She demonstrates the resourcefulness and enterprise of a merchant trader.