What is Eshet Chayil?

Have you heard of the Proverbs 31 woman? This is often referred to by us women as we try and walk in all that God has called us to. There’s so much wisdom in this Proverb, it wasn’t until a few years ago that I learned about the Hebrew meaning of Eshet Chayil and it’s tie to this scripture.

While looking for a new Bible a few years ago, a close friend recommended the Complete Jewish Study Bible. I wanted a new version and specifically to understand the Hebrew meaning of God’s Word. It was in this Bible that I came across a study section in Proverbs 31. If you look up the meaning of Eshet Chayil on the internet you will find things like “a woman of valor” (hebrew4christians.com). Here in this translation it is listed as “a capable woman” (Complete Jewish Study Bible). Both of these translations are important and have great meaning when we look at Proverbs 31:10-31. 

This study note discusses how these verses are often read (or sung) at Shabbat often by a man honoring his wife. It also refers to the Proverbs 31 woman as “a virtuous woman” as these women through their actions glorify God. The traits of this woman are listed as creative, resourceful, cares for the well-being of others, and serves in love. She also is noted as not just having physical beauty but beauty in her soul as she serves with intention and seizing each moment as God calls her to it. 

And my favorite translation of Eshet Chayil is also noted here “the woman who strives to live a full life of service to God” (CJSB). 

I wanted to share all of this with you because this section is dedicated as a space for Eshet Chayil. These are women that I know walking in alignment with their God-given assignment to be of service to Him and to others. 

“Clothed with strength and dignity, she can laugh at the days to come. When she opens her mouth, she speaks wisely; on her tongue is loving instruction. She watches how things go in her house, not eating the bread of idleness.” 

(Proverbs 31:25-27 CJSB)

I have had the blessing of seeing how they walk in alignment with His Word and the gift they have been as they have shared and poured out wisdom and guidance in my life and others. 

This is place I wanted to share their voices with you as they feel called to. 

“Charm can lie, beauty can vanish, but a woman who fears ADONAI should be praised; Give her a share in what she produces; let her works speak her praises at the city gates”

(Proverbs 31:30-31 CBSJ)

Enjoy!