Proverbs 29:2-12

2 When the righteous flourish, the people rejoice, but when the wicked rule, people groan.^[a]

3 A man who loves wisdom brings joy to his father, but one who consorts with prostitutes destroys his wealth.^[b]

4 By justice a king brings stability to a land, but a man [who demands] "contributions"^[c] demolishes it.

5 A man who flatters^[d] his neighbor spreads a net for his feet.^[e]

6 An evil man is caught by sin,^[f] but the righteous one sings and rejoices.

7 The righteous person knows the rights^[g] of the poor, but the wicked one does not understand these concerns.

8 Mockers inflame a city, but the wise turn away anger.^[h]

9 If a wise man goes to court with a fool, there will be ranting and raving but no resolution.^[i]

10 Bloodthirsty men hate an honest person, but the upright care about him.^[j]

11 A fool gives full vent to his anger,^[k] but a wise man holds it in check.^[l]

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

Proverbs 29:2-12 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]. Pr 28:1; Ex 2:23; 1 Ch 29:9
• [b]. Pr 15:20; 23:24-25; Lk 15:13
• [c]. The Hb word usually refers to offerings in worship.
• [d]. Lit is smooth on
• [e]. Pr 26:28; 27:6; 28:23
• [f]. Pr 12:13; 18:7
• [g]. Lit justice
• [h]. Pr 26:21; 29:22
• [i]. Lit rest
• [j]. Or person, and seek the life of the upright
• [k]. Lit spirit
• [l]. Pr 16:32; 25:28