“As a ring of gold in a swine’s snout, so is a lovely woman who lacks discretion” (Proverbs 11:22).

The book of Proverbs contains many wise sayings, that set forth advice and general truths for life.  These are designed to keep people, especially  young men, from mistakes and bad choices in life (cf. Proverbs 1:1-6, 8-9, 10; 2:1-2; 3:1-4, 11-12; 4:1-2, 10-13, 20-22; 5:1-6, 7-13, 20-21; 6:1-5, 20-24; 7:1-5, etc.). 

One of the greatest decisions one makes in life is whom to marry. This book says much about this.  Consider: (1) “An excellent wife is the crown of her husband, but she who causes shame is like rottenness in his bones” (Proverbs 12:4).  (2) “Better to dwell in a corner of a housetop, than in a house shared with a contentious woman (Proverbs 21:9).  (3) “Better to dwell in the wilderness, than with a contentious and angry woman” (Proverbs 21:19).  (4) “Who can find a virtuous wife?  For her worth is far above rubies” (Proverbs 31:10).  (5) “Charm is deceitful and beauty is passing but a woman who fears the LORD, she shall be praised” (Proverbs 31:30).

In the text quoted above (Proverbs 11:22), a simile (a figure of speech which makes a comparison using “like” or “as”) is set forth.  A woman without discretion (translated “judgment” in Psalm 119:66) is compared to a swine.  Her loveliness or physical beauty is compared to a gold ring.  The point is that physical beauty does not overcome ugliness of her character.  It is in modern words: “lipstick on a pig.” 

True beauty is found in godliness.  “Charm is deceitful and beauty is passing, but a woman who fears the LORD, she shall be praised” (Proverbs 31:30). Consider this modern saying: “Beauty is but skin deep, ugly to the bone. And when beauty fades away, ugly claims its own.”