Old Testament
Proverbs 31:17
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
She prepares herself with strength and makes her arms strong.
Compare translations
She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms.
What Proverbs 31:17 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse highlights the importance of a woman being strong and prepared for her responsibilities. The phrase 'girdeth her loins' refers to the practice of securing one's clothing to allow for freedom of movement, symbolizing readiness for action. By strengthening her arms, she is not only physically preparing herself but also mentally and emotionally gearing up for the tasks ahead. This strength can be seen as both literal and metaphorical, indicating that she is capable and resilient in facing challenges. The verse emphasizes the value of diligence and the proactive nature of a virtuous woman, who takes the initiative to equip herself for her roles, whether in the home or in the community. Overall, it encourages women to cultivate strength and readiness in all aspects of life, reflecting a commitment to their duties and responsibilities.
How to apply Proverbs 31:17 to your life
Women today can take inspiration from this verse by actively preparing themselves for their roles, whether at home, work, or in the community. This may involve physical fitness, skill development, or emotional resilience, fostering a proactive approach to life's challenges.
Curated for this public verse page. Proverbs Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.

Illustrated scene from Daniel's story: Faithful at the King's Table (Daniel 1:1–21)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Daniel

Photo: Bukvoed, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 4.0. Source. Location: Burj Beitin, Beitin, Ramallah and al-Bireh Governorate, West Bank. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Bethel
Where Jacob dreamed of a stairway to heaven and met God.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Proverbs 31:17
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Proverbs 31:17
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Proverbs
- Author
- Primarily Solomon, with other contributors
- Written
- Around 950-700 BC
- Genre
- Wisdom literature
- Original Audience
- Young people and all seeking wisdom
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Proverbs 31:17 mean?
Proverbs 31:17 emphasizes the importance of a woman being strong and prepared for her responsibilities. It suggests that she actively equips herself, both physically and mentally, to face challenges in her life.
What is the meaning of 'girdeth her loins' in Proverbs 31:17?
The phrase 'girdeth her loins' refers to the practice of securing one's clothing for freedom of movement, symbolizing readiness for action. It indicates that a woman is preparing herself to take on her duties effectively.
How can women apply Proverbs 31:17 today?
Women can apply Proverbs 31:17 by actively preparing for their roles through physical fitness, skill development, and emotional resilience. This proactive approach helps them tackle life's challenges effectively.
What themes are present in Proverbs 31:17?
Key themes in Proverbs 31:17 include strength, preparation, diligence, resilience, virtue, and empowerment. These themes encourage women to cultivate readiness and capability in all aspects of their lives.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.