Proverbs 29:16

16 When the wicked increase, transgression increases, but ¹the righteous will look upon their downfall.

Proverbs 29:16 Meaning and Commentary

Proverbs 29:16

When the wicked are multiplied
Or "are in authority" {r}; as the word is rendered, ( Proverbs 29:2 ) ; transgression increaseth;
among the common people, being encouraged by their wicked rulers, whose examples they follow; or as the wicked themselves increase, in numbers, in age, in power, and riches, their sins increase too; but the righteous shall see their fall,
from their places of authority and power, of honour, riches, and grandeur, into a low and despicable condition, into ruin and destruction; and that with pleasure, because of the glory of God, his wisdom, justice, truth, and faithfulness, displayed therein; see ( Psalms 58:10 ) .

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FOOTNOTES:

F18 (twbrb) "dominantibus impiis"; some in Mercerus; "quum praesunt impii", Tigurine version.

Proverbs 29:16 In-Context

14 If a king faithfully judges the poor, his throne will be established forever.

15 The rod and reproof give wisdom, but a child left to himself brings shame to his mother.

16 When the wicked increase, transgression increases, but the righteous will look upon their downfall.

17 Discipline your son, and he will give you rest; he will give delight to your heart.

18 Where there is no prophetic vision the people cast off restraint, but blessed is he who keeps the law.

Cross References

• 1. Psalms 37:34, 36; Psalms 58:10; Psalms 91:8; Psalms 92:11