In the Bible, there is a passage in the Book of Proverbs that mentions a man named Lemuel. Lemuel is described as a king, and the passage is actually a set of instructions or advice that Lemuel’s mother gave him. This passage can be found in Proverbs 31:1-9 in the King James Version of the Bible.
The passage begins with the words, “The words of king Lemuel, the prophecy that his mother taught him” (Proverbs 31:1, KJV). This indicates that Lemuel was a king and that his mother had some important wisdom to impart to him. The passage goes on to say, “What, my son? and what, the son of my womb? and what, the son of my vows?” (Proverbs 31:2, KJV). This shows the deep love and concern that Lemuel’s mother had for him, and her desire to impart valuable advice to him.
Lemuel’s mother then gives him a series of instructions, including warnings against alcohol and the company of immoral women. She says, “It is not for kings, O Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine; nor for princes strong drink” (Proverbs 31:4, KJV). This indicates that Lemuel’s mother wanted him to be a wise and responsible king, and to avoid the pitfalls of excess and temptation.
The passage continues with Lemuel’s mother advising him to defend the rights of the poor and needy, and to speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves. She says, “Open thy mouth for the dumb in the cause of all such as are appointed to destruction” (Proverbs 31:8, KJV). This shows that being a king is not just about wielding power, but also about using that power for good and standing up for those who are marginalized or oppressed.
Lemuel’s mother also advises him to seek out a virtuous woman as a partner, saying, “Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies” (Proverbs 31:10, KJV). This indicates that Lemuel’s mother believed that a good woman would be a valuable asset to him and would bring him happiness and success.
The passage concludes with Lemuel’s mother praising the virtues of a good woman, saying, “Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her” (Proverbs 31:28, KJV). This indicates that Lemuel’s mother believed that a virtuous and capable woman would not only bring happiness and fulfillment to her husband, but also to her children and all those around her.
Overall, the passage in Proverbs 31 that mentions Lemuel is a powerful and thought-provoking set of instructions that Lemuel’s mother gave to him. It emphasizes the importance of wisdom, justice, and integrity, and encourages Lemuel to be a responsible and compassionate king. The passage also highlights the value of finding a virtuous partner and the importance of standing up for the marginalized and oppressed. Lemuel’s mother’s advice to him serves as a timeless reminder of the qualities that make a good leader and a good person, and it is a message that can still resonate with readers today.
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