Proverbs 16:12

12 It is an abomination to kings to commit wickedness; for the throne is established by righteousness.

Proverbs 16:12 Meaning and Commentary

Proverbs 16:12

[It is] an abomination to kings to commit wickedness
The Targum is,

``the abomination of kings are they that work wickedness.''
It should be an abomination to kings to commit wickedness themselves, and those that do it should be abhorred by them, or they should show their resentment at it by removing them from their presence, or by punishing them: and though there have been such kings as David, ( Psalms 101:4 Psalms 101:7 ) ; yet there are but few such; this is not true of kings in common; and therefore rather expresses what they should be than what they are; but is perfectly applicable to Christ, who loves righteousness and hates iniquity, ( Psalms 45:7 ) ; for the throne is established by righteousness;
this is the support, strength, and security of every kingdom, and of the thrones of kings; and it is with judgment and righteousness that the throne of Christ is established; yea, justice and judgment are the habitation of his throne, ( Isaiah 9:7 ) ( Psalms 89:14 ) .

Proverbs 16:12 In-Context

10 An oracle is on the lips of the king: his mouth will not err in judgment.
11 The just balance and scales are Jehovah's; all the weights of the bag are his work.
12 It is an abomination to kings to commit wickedness; for the throne is established by righteousness.
13 Righteous lips are the delight of kings, and they love him that speaketh aright.
14 The fury of a king is [as] messengers of death; but a wise man will pacify it.
The Darby Translation is in the public domain.