At first glance, we see a lady who isn’t concerned when there is a change of seasons because she is prepared. She is prudent. She sees that the cold weather is coming, and prepares for it. Armed with warm clothes for all, she doesn’t have to be anxious. She thinks and plans ahead. She doesn’t wait until the snow flies to say “Oh no, we need winter coats and mittens”.
I was curious about the first sentence, when it snows. For some reason, I had never thought of Jerusalem as having snow. Certainly not like the snowy winters we have here in PA! But while digging further, I found that two winters out of three will bring snow. Generally it comes in small quantities and melts quickly. Yet there are sometimes very snowy winters. In 1879 the winter brought 17 inches of snow!
And on to no fear for her household. The virtuous wife doesn’t stand in fear of the snow (or of sin), because she stands in awe of her Lord. With Him, there is no need for fear.
As for scarlet, can you think of how many times it’s mentioned in the Bible? I think of Rahab, and her scarlet cord. In Leviticus, where the ritual cleaning of a leaper included scarlet fabric. Saul clothes the daughters of Israel in scarlet. Scarlet was also used in the construction of the Tabernacle and Temple. In the Song of Solomon scarlet is used in the description of the beauty of the bride where we read “Your lips are like a strand of scarlet..” These are just a few examples, scarlet is mentioned quite a bit.
From what I could find, clothed in scarlet means she had quality clothing. That type of dye would have really been expensive. The color was also said to absorb and retain heat, which would certainly come in handy during a snowy winter. The garments would be not only warm but beautiful.
I have to wonder though, does this have a deeper meaning than just clothing color? Could it mean she isn’t afraid for her family’s souls, because they are clothed in the scarlet robes of the King’s family? They are safe under the blood of the Lamb, like the Israelites with the blood over their doors, and like Rahab with the scarlet cord out her window.
This coming week as you shop, as you wash sheets, as you be frugal and find sales and as you tend to your own appearance…do it to the glory of God.
We are on Week 6 of the Proverbs (Women’s study) and we think there is a typo in Question 14, where it asks us to look up Proverbs 18:18. It is related to the nature and consequences of gossip.
Could you clarify this for us.
Thank you,