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Book of Proverbs - Chapter 12 - Verse 4

12:4
A virtuous woman is a crown to her husband: but she that maketh ashamed is as rottenness in his bones.

Meaning

Proverbs 12:4 highlights the importance of a virtuous woman in a marriage. The verse compares a virtuous woman to a crown, symbolizing her value, honor, and dignity within the relationship. Just as a crown adorns and uplifts the head of a king, a virtuous woman enhances her husband's life and brings him honor. On the other hand, a wife who brings shame and disgrace to her husband is likened to rottenness in his bones. This vivid imagery suggests that her actions and behavior can slowly decay and deteriorate the foundation of their marriage. The verse serves as a reminder of the significant impact a wife can have on her husband's life, either uplifting him like a crown or causing him deep pain like rottenness in his bones. Ultimately, Proverbs 12:4 emphasizes the importance of a virtuous and honorable woman in a marriage, as her actions can greatly influence the well-being and happiness of her husband.

Theological Overview

Proverbs 12:4 presents a powerful comparison between the impact of a virtuous woman and a disgraceful one on her husband. The image of a virtuous woman being a crown to her husband reinforces the idea that a woman who embodies virtues such as integrity, wisdom, and kindness brings honor and dignity to her spouse. The word "crown" implies that she adds value, protection, and beauty to her husband's life. On the contrary, a woman who brings shame and dishonor to her husband is likened to "rottenness in his bones," suggesting that her actions cause decay, pain, and destruction that eat away at the very core of his being. This verse serves as a reminder of the significant role a wife plays in either uplifting or tearing down her husband, highlighting the importance of choosing virtues and living a life that glorifies God.

American Standard Version

A worthy woman is the crown of her husband; But she that maketh ashamed is as rottenness in his bones.
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