Overview
The Bible addresses poetry across 22 verses, drawn from the Old Testament. These passages cluster most in Proverbs. Closely related themes include Economics, Wife, Women and Woman.
Key Bible verses about poetry
Old Testament
Proverbs
Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies.
The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil.
She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life.
She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands.
She is like the merchants' ships; she bringeth her food from afar.
She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens.
She considereth a field, and buyeth it: with the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard. buyeth: Heb. taketh
She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms.
She perceiveth that her merchandise is good: her candle goeth not out by night. She: Heb. She tasteth
She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff.
She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy. She: Heb. She spreadeth
She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household are clothed with scarlet. scarlet: or, double garments
She maketh herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing is silk and purple.
Her husband is known in the gates, when he sitteth among the elders of the land.
She maketh fine linen, and selleth it; and delivereth girdles unto the merchant.
Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come.
She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness.
She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness.
Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her.
Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all. have: or, have gotten riches
Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised.
Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates.
In the Bible dictionary
Studying poetry for yourself
- Begin with Proverbs 31:10, then read the passages below in canonical order.
- Widen the study to related themes: Economics, Wife, Women and Woman.
Frequently asked questions
What does the Bible say about poetry?
The Bible addresses poetry across 22 verses, drawn from the Old Testament. These passages cluster most in Proverbs. Closely related themes include Economics, Wife, Women and Woman.
How many Bible verses are about poetry?
The Bible references poetry in 22 verses (King James Version).
Where does the Bible first mention poetry?
In canonical order, the first of these passages is Proverbs 31:10: “Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies.”
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