Proverbs 29:12-22

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

13 The poor and the oppressor have this in common:^[a] the Lord gives light to the eyes of both.^[b]

14 A king who judges the poor with fairness- his throne will be established forever.

15 A rod of correction imparts wisdom, but a youth left to himself^[c] is a disgrace to his mother.^[d]

16 When the wicked increase, rebellion increases, but the righteous will see their downfall.^[e]

17 Discipline your son, and he will give you comfort; he will also give you delight.

18 Without revelation^[f] people run wild, but one who keeps the law will be happy.

19 A servant cannot be disciplined by words; though he understands, he doesn't respond.

20 Do you see a man who speaks too soon? There is more hope for a fool than for him.^[g]

21 A slave pampered from his youth will become arrogant^[h] later on.

22 An angry man stirs up conflict, and a hot-tempered man^[i] increases rebellion.^[j]

Proverbs 29:12-22 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.

Footnotes

• [a]. Lit oppressor meet
• [b]. Pr 22:2
• [c]. Lit youth sent away; Jb 39:5; Isa 16:2
• [d]. Pr 13:18; 17:25; 22:15
• [e]. Pr 28:28; 29:2
• [f]. Lit vision
• [g]. Pr 19:2
• [h]. Hb obscure
• [i]. Lit a master of rage
• [j]. Pr 15:18; 26:21; 28:25