Proverbs 16:12

12 A king hates it when his people do what is wrong. A ruler is made secure when they do what is right.

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 A king might speak as if his words come from God. But what he says should not turn right into wrong.

11 Honest scales and balances come from the Lord. He made all of the weights in the bag.

12 A king hates it when his people do what is wrong. A ruler is made secure when they do what is right.

13 Kings are pleased when what you say is honest. They value people who speak the truth.

14 An angry king can order your death. But a wise man will try to calm him down.