11:16
Notice the parallel parts that contrast in meaning:
16a
A gracious woman attains honor,
16b but ruthless men gain only wealth.
There is a contrast between a woman (singular) and men (plural). There are also contrasts between gracious and ruthless and between honor and wealth.
11:16a–b
A gracious woman attains honor, but ruthless men gain only wealth: There is a textual difference in this verse:
(1) The Masoretic Text has only two lines. They compare a woman and men. For example:
A gracious woman wins respect, but ruthless men gain riches. (God’s Word)
(2) The LXX has four lines. The first two lines compare two kinds of women. The last two lines compare two kinds of men. English versions translate the last two lines in a way that could refer to men or women. For example:
A gracious lady is respected, but a woman without virtue is a disgrace.
Lazy people will never have money, but aggressive people will get rich. (Good News Translation)
It is recommended that you follow option (1), along with most versions and scholars.
11:16a
A gracious woman: In Hebrew, this phrase is literally “a woman of grace.” In this context, “grace” refers to a charming or attractive personality that will win the favor of others. Other ways to translate this phrase are:
a kind woman (New Century Version)
-or-
a kindhearted woman (New International Version)
11:16b
but ruthless men: The word ruthless refers here to cruel men who show no mercy. They use violence to terrify and overcome their victims. Some other ways to translate this word are:
violent (New Jerusalem Bible)
-or-
cruel (New Century Version)
gain only wealth: The word only does not occur here in Hebrew. However, it is probably implied, since gaining wealth contrasts with gaining respect. The implication is that cruel men do not earn the respect of other people.
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