Whoever
finds a wife finds a good thing, and obtains favor of Yahweh.
Proverbs 18:22
Proverbs 18 [20.] A man’s stomach is filled with the fruit of his mouth.
With the harvest of his lips he is satisfied.
Death and life are in the power of the tongue;
those who love it will eat its fruit.
Whoever finds a wife finds a good thing,
and obtains favor of Yahweh.
The poor plead for mercy,
but the rich answer harshly.
A man of many companions may be ruined,
but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.
Meaning:
- Marriage is a Positive Act:
The verse begins with the assertion that "whoever finds a wife" is engaging in a positive and intentional action. The text speaks of a man who finds a wife; as an application, it is also read today of a couple finding each other. The use of the word "finds" implies a purposeful pursuit and the recognition of the value of committing to a good partner in life.
- A Good Thing:
The text declares that whoever finds a wife finds a "good thing." This goes beyond a mere positive experience; it emphasizes the inherent goodness, blessing, and value that a partner brings into the life of their spouse. It highlights the complementary and enriching nature of a marital relationship.
- Obtaining Favor from Yahweh:
The verse concludes by stating that finding a wife results in obtaining "favor of Yahweh" (the LORD). This elevates the institution of marriage to a spiritual dimension, suggesting that a godly and harmonious union is divinely approved and carries the favor of God.
Significance and Reflection:
The Value of a Good Spouse: Proverbs 18:22 emphasizes the immeasurable value of a good partner. It prompts individuals to recognize that a healthy and loving marriage is not only a human achievement but a divine blessing. It encourages a perspective that appreciates the goodness inherent in a godly marital relationship.
Intentionality in Relationships: The use of the term "finds" suggests that the quest for a good spouse requires intentionality and active participation. It is not a passive occurrence but a purposeful pursuit, encouraging individuals to approach relationships with discernment and a desire for a partner who aligns with godly values.
Divine Approval of Marriage: The reference to obtaining favor from Yahweh elevates the institution of marriage to a sacred level. It implies that marriages built on principles of love, commitment, and faith align with God's design and, as a result, carry His favor. This perspective encourages couples to cultivate a relationship centered on God's principles.
Cross References:
Proverbs 19:14: Another Proverbial verse reinforces the idea that a prudent wife is from the LORD, emphasizing the divine role in bringing about a good and wise spouse. This complements Proverbs 18:22 by highlighting the divine involvement in the selection of a life partner.
Genesis 2:18: The foundational importance of a marital relationship is established in Genesis 2:18, where God declares that it is not good for man to be alone and promises to provide a suitable helper—a precursor to the idea expressed in Proverbs 18:22.
Elsewhere Proverbs shows that the "good thing" is above all a good wife. It says, "A worthy woman is the crown of her husband, but a disgraceful wife is as rottenness in his bones" (Proverbs 12:4), and warns, "It is better to dwell in the corner of the housetop, than to share a house with a contentious woman" (Proverbs 21:9). Its final chapter asks, "Who can find a worthy woman? For her price is far above rubies" (Proverbs 31:10). Such a wife is a gift from God: "House and riches are an inheritance from fathers, but a prudent wife is from Yahweh" (Proverbs 19:14). This goes back to creation, when the man greeted the woman God made for him with joy: "This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh" (Genesis 2:23). The New Testament adds, "Let marriage be held in honor among all" (Hebrews 13:4).
In Conclusion: Proverbs 18:22 serves as a beacon of wisdom, guiding individuals to appreciate the value and divine favor associated with finding a good spouse. It encourages intentional and purposeful relationships, highlighting the blessings that come with a harmonious and godly marital union. As individuals reflect on this verse, they are prompted to approach relationships with discernment, recognizing the goodness that a loving and committed partner brings into their lives.
PIB Scriptures are derived from the World English Bible