A Mother's Advice: The Exegesis of a Text: The Proverbial Woman

A mother's advice is priceless, a precious jewel. The Thirty-first Chapter of Proverbs is a timeless tutorial. It paints a picture of the love and care of a mother and the desire for her son that he be pleasing to God and her vows to God raising him in the admonition and nurture of the Lord.

King Lemuel's Mother put forth three questions:

Ø What my son?

Ø What the son of my womb?

Ø What the son of my vows?

She is asked and answered the questions. She advised him on the characteristics to look for in a woman when choosing a wife. Also, a warning when it relates to women other than his mate whether they be his friends, close acquaintance, or women around him in general. Being a King over an enormous kingdom makes him a target for strange women. Walking circumspectly is wise.

As well, she cautions him of the dangers of a King falling prey to the vices of wine, strong drink, partying, and strange women with sweet enticing words dripping from her lips like honey from a comb. A King is duty-bond to his responsibilities and the people who he has oversight; judgements must be fair, justice must prevail; he must not have a respect of person; be cognizant of the poor and those who are helpless who have no other voice but his to plead their causes. His focus should be on his obligations and not be drawn away by the allurements of the world. In the words of Solomon, "My son, hear the instruction of thy father, and forsake not the law of thy mother," [ Proverbs 1:8].