Proverbs 28:16

16 Among leaders who lack insight, abuse abounds, but for one who hates corruption, the future is bright.

Proverbs 28:16 Meaning and Commentary

Proverbs 28:16

The prince that wanteth understanding [is] also a great
oppressor
Or, "much in oppressions" ^F15; he multiplies them, and abounds in them; he distresses his subjects in a variety of ways and methods he uses to extort money from them by which he shows his want of understanding: he is a wise prince that uses gentle methods, and gains the affections of his people, and who cheerfully supports his crown and government with honour and glory; but he is a foolish prince that uses them with rigour. It may be rendered, "and a prince that wanteth understanding, and is much", or "abounds, in oppressions"; in laying heavy burdens and taxes on his people, in an arbitrary manner; "shall shorten, and not prolong his days" ^F16, as it may be supplied from the next clause; either his subjects will rise up against him, and dethrone him, and destroy him; or God, in mercy to them, and in judgment to him, will remove him by death; [but] he that hateth covetousness shall prolong [his] days;
to hate covetousness is a good qualification of a civil magistrate, prince, or ruler, ( Exodus 18:21 ) . This sin is the cause of a wicked prince oppressing his subjects; but where it is hated, which is seen by moderation in government, and easing of the people as much as possible; such a prince, as he has the hearts of his subjects, is well pleasing to God, by whom he reigns; and such an one, through the prayers of the people for him, and the goodness of God unto him, lives long, and reigns prosperously; and dies, as David, in a good old age, full of days, riches, and honour.

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FOOTNOTES:

F15 (twqvem br) "multus oppressionibus", Montanus, Junius & Tremeilius, Piscator, Mercerus, Baynus, Michaelis, Schultens.
F16 So Junius & Tremellius, Piscator, Gejerus, and some Jewish writers in Vatablus.

Proverbs 28:16 In-Context

14 A tenderhearted person lives a blessed life; a hardhearted person lives a hard life.

15 Lions roar and bears charge - and the wicked lord it over the poor.

16 Among leaders who lack insight, abuse abounds, but for one who hates corruption, the future is bright.

17 A murderer haunted by guilt is doomed - there's no helping him.

18 Walk straight - live well and be saved; a devious life is a doomed life. Doing Great Harm in Seemingly Harmless Ways