Definition: A virtuous woman [is] a crown to her husband: but she that maketh ashamed [is] as rottenness in his bones.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this beautiful and insightful verse from Proverbs 12:4. It’s a really thought-provoking message about womanhood and its impact on relationships. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that a woman who lives a virtuous, righteous, and kind life – a person of integrity and goodness – is actually good for her husband. It's not just about being nice; it's about having a positive influence on him. Conversely, a woman who is ashamed, dishonest, or unkind is actually damaging to the relationship. Let’s unpack it further: “A virtuous woman [is] a crown to her husband…” – This means that a woman who consistently acts with honesty, kindness, and responsibility makes her husband look good . She's a source of pride and respect for him. Think of it like a beautiful flower that makes the garden flourish. “…but she that maketh ashamed [is] as rottenness in his bones.” – This is where it gets really powerful. “Rottenness” means decay, corruption, or sickness. This verse describes a woman who is constantly self-absorbed, dishonest, and perhaps even cruel. She’s like a diseased plant that slowly poisons the soil around her. She's so focused on herself that she can't truly care for or support her husband – and that eventually leads to unhappiness and potentially problems in the relationship. In short: It highlights the importance of a woman's character, focusing on her moral integrity and kindness, as being crucial for a healthy and fulfilling marriage. It’s not just about pleasing him; it’s about leading by example and contributing positively to his well-being. Overall Message: The verse encourages women to prioritize their own character and goodness so that they can be a positive influence on their husbands, creating a loving and supportive environment for them. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Give you some examples of how a virtuous woman might act? Discuss the broader context of Proverbs 12?