Proverbs 29:4-14

4 A king gives stability to a country by justice, but one who overtaxes it brings it to ruin.

5 A person who flatters his neighbor spreads a net for his own steps.

6 In an evil person's crime is a trap, but the righteous sing and rejoice.

7 The righteous understands the cause of the poor, but the wicked is unconcerned.

8 Scoffers can inflame a city, but the wise can calm the fury.

9 When a wise man argues with a foolish one, he meets anger and ridicule without relief.

10 Men of blood hate those who are pure and seek the life of the upright.

11 A fool gives vent to all his feelings, but the wise, thinking of afterwards, stills them.

12 If a ruler listens to lies, all his officials will be wicked.

13 The poor and the oppressor have this in common: ADONAI gives light to the eyes of both.

14 If a king steadfastly gives justice to the poor, his throne will be secure forever.

Proverbs 29:4-14 Meaning and Commentary

INTRODUCTION TO 1 KINGS 16

This chapter contains a prophecy of the ruin of the family of Baasha, and an account of his death, 1Ki 16:1-7, and of his son's reigning in his stead two years, who was slain by Zimri one of his captains, 1Ki 16:8-14, and who reigned but seven days, 1Ki 16:15-20, and the people being divided between Tibni and Omri, the party for the latter prevailed, and he was made king, and reigned twelve years, 1Ki 16:21-28, and was succeeded by his son Ahab, a very wicked prince, 1Ki 16:29-33, and the chapter is concluded with the rebuilding of Jericho, 1Ki 16:34.