Proverbs 29:12

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

Proverbs 29:12 in Other Translations

12 If a ruler hearken to lies, all his servants are wicked.

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

12 If a ruler pays attention to liars, all his advisers will be wicked.

12 When a leader listens to malicious gossip, all the workers get infected with evil.

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

Proverbs 29:12 Meaning and Commentary

Proverbs 29:12

If a ruler hearken to lies
To men that tell them in order to soothe and flatter him, or to hurt the character and reputation of others, that they may raise their own: rulers should not listen to and encourage such sort of persons; for, as lying lips do not become a prince, so it is not right to have liars about him; David would not suffer such to dwell in his court, ( Psalms 101:7 ) ; all his servants [are] wicked;
or the greatest part of them: for a ruler of such a disposition will take none but such into his service, that flatter him, and calumniate others; and such a conduct, being pleasing and agreeable to him, is a temptation to his ministers to act the same wicked part; as is a prince, such are his courtiers; his example has a great influence upon them.

Proverbs 29:12 In-Context

10 The bloodthirsty hate a person of integrity and seek to kill the upright.

11 Fools give full vent to their rage, but the wise bring calm in the end.

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

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

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

Cross References

• 1. 2 Kings 21:9
• 2. S Job 34:30