Key Verse Spotlight
Proverbs 28:15 - Meaning and Application
Understand how this verse speaks to what you're facing and how to apply it today
Translation: World English Bible — Catholic Edition
" As a roaring lion or a charging bear, so is a wicked ruler over helpless people. "
Proverbs 28:15
Verse in Context
Understanding the surrounding verses prevents misinterpretation:
13 He who conceals his sins doesn’t prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them finds mercy.
14 Blessed is the man who always fears; but one who hardens his heart falls into trouble.
15 As a roaring lion or a charging bear, so is a wicked ruler over helpless people.
16 A tyrannical ruler lacks judgment. One who hates ill-gotten gain will have long days.
17 A man who is tormented by blood guilt will be a fugitive until death. No one will support him.
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Create Free AccountBible Guided Commentary
It is written, “You shall not speak evil of the ruler of your people.” But if a ruler is wicked and crushes the people, especially the poor, and strips them of what little they have, then whatever name we give him, this verse describes him as a roaring lion and a charging bear.
In regard to his character, he is brutal, savage, and bloodthirsty. He belongs more among wild beasts of prey, the most fierce and dangerous animals, than among those noble beings whose honor is reason and kindness.
In regard to the harm he does to his subjects, he is terrifying like a roaring lion that makes the forest shake. He is also devouring like a hungry bear. The more he feels need, the more harm he does, and the more greedy he becomes for gain.
From This Chapter
Proverbs 28:1
"The wicked flee when no one pursues; but the righteous are as bold as a lion."
Proverbs 28:2
"In rebellion, a land has many rulers, but order is maintained by a man of understanding and knowledge."
Proverbs 28:3
"A needy man who oppresses the poor is like a driving rain which leaves no crops."
Proverbs 28:4
"Those who forsake the law praise the wicked; but those who keep the law contend with them."
Proverbs 28:5
"Evil men don’t understand justice; but those who seek the LORD understand it fully."
Proverbs 28:6
"Better is the poor who walks in his integrity than he who is perverse in his ways, and he is rich."
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