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Preaching: Rev. Dr. Stephen M. Fearing

Text: Proverbs 31:10-31

Proverbs 31 might be one of the most misunderstood and misapplied passages in scripture. What if this ancient text wasn't meant to burden women with impossible standards, but to celebrate and honor them?

This eye-opening exploration challenges traditional interpretations of the "woman of valor" passage that has too often been weaponized against women. Rather than a checklist of perfection that no real person could achieve, we discover how Jewish tradition uses these words as a blessing – traditionally sung by husbands to their wives each Sabbath evening as an expression of gratitude and admiration.

The Hebrew term "Eshet Chayil" (woman of valor) takes on new meaning when we understand it as a celebration rather than a criticism. As author Rachel Held Evans learned from her Jewish friends, this phrase functions as something like "you go girl!" – a way to honor women's achievements, strength, and dignity in everyday life. Valor isn't defined by checking every box on a spiritual performance review; it's about how you approach life with wisdom, generosity, and purpose.

Most refreshingly, we see how the qualities described in Proverbs 31 aren't gender-specific. The passage itself portrays a remarkably independent woman with agency and autonomy, challenging many traditional gender expectations. These characteristics of wisdom – being thoughtful, generous, hardworking, and forward-thinking – benefit everyone regardless of gender.

Try adopting the practice of declaring "Eshet Chayil" when you witness the women in your life demonstrating valor, not to suggest they need to earn your approval, but to celebrate who they already are. This simple shift transforms Proverbs 31 from burden to blessing, just as it was always meant to be.

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