Proverbs chapter 31

vs 1

So, really the sayings of his mum. Sounds cooler if you put it under the king's name, I guess.

Actually, you know what is missing from Proverbs? A bunch of stuff saying how stupid women are. "Big deal" you might say, but remember when this was written. I know adultery is written from the perspective of 'adulteresses', which isn't exactly flattering, but a lot is said about listening to your mother.

vs 2

Awww, isn't that sweet.

vs 3

Ouch! From the mouth of a mother, I guess. Damn, I had to open my mouth about women. Look, I think the point is that if you spend all your time chasing tail, you're not ruling your kingdom. So don't let them domiate your mind or... other bits you use to think with.

vs 4

Alcohol similarly. It's not that a king can't drink it - it's that they can't become a slave to it.

vs 5

And that is why - kings are primarily, or at least partly, to exist as a tool for justice. And drunkards aren't great at justice.

vs 6

Of course, alcohol is a depressant, so this isn't really fabulous advice. But the point being that kings shouldn't be drinking it.

vs 7

Kings shouldn't be into such escapism. Their lives also shouldn't be miserable, I suppose.

vs 8

We so often think of rich important people looking out for other rich, important people. But the job of a king is actually to look out for the oppressed and the marginalised. That's what God expects.

vs 9

Speak up! Don't just "do what you can". Be active about it, and pursue it! That's what God wants.

vs 10

Ahhh, now we start on the famous wife of noble character. This comes just before the book of Esther in the Hebrew bible, and little wonder. But we'll learn more about that tomorrow.