Proverbs 16:12

12 An abomination to kings [is] doing wickedness, For by righteousness is a throne established.

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 An oath [is] on the lips of a king, In judgment his mouth trespasseth not.
11 A just beam and balances [are] Jehovah's, His work [are] all the stones of the bag.
12 An abomination to kings [is] doing wickedness, For by righteousness is a throne established.
13 The delight of kings [are] righteous lips, And whoso is speaking uprightly he loveth,
14 The fury of a king [is] messengers of death, And a wise man pacifieth it.
Young's Literal Translation is in the public domain.