Key Verse Spotlight
Proverbs 28:16 - Meaning and Application
Understand how this verse speaks to what you're facing and how to apply it today
Translation: King James Version
" The prince that wanteth understanding is also a great oppressor: but he that hateth covetousness shall prolong his days. "
Proverbs 28:16
Verse in Context
Understanding the surrounding verses prevents misinterpretation:
14 Happy is the man that feareth alway: but he that hardeneth his heart shall fall into mischief.
15 As a roaring lion, and a ranging bear; so is a wicked ruler over the poor people.
16 The prince that wanteth understanding is also a great oppressor: but he that hateth covetousness shall prolong his days.
17 A man that doeth violence to the blood of any person shall flee to the pit; let no man stay
18 Whoso walketh uprightly shall be saved: but he that is perverse in his ways shall fall at once.
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Two things are shown here as causes of bad rule in princes.
First, the love of money, that root of all evil. Hating greed is set against oppression here, in line with Moses’s description of good leaders, people who fear God and hate greed (Exodus 18:21). A ruler who loves money will not deal justly or love mercy. The people under him will be treated as things to be bought and sold.
Second, a lack of wisdom and serious thought. The one who hates greed will keep his rule long and have peace. He will enjoy the love of his people and the blessing of his God. It is as much a ruler’s interest as his duty to govern in righteousness.
So oppressors and tyrants are among the greatest fools in the world. They lack understanding. They do not think about their own honor, comfort, or safety. Instead, they give up all these things for the pride of having absolute power. They could be much happier in the hearts of their people than in their necks or estates.
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From This Chapter
Proverbs 28:1
"The wicked flee when no man pursueth: but the righteous are bold as a lion."
Proverbs 28:2
"For the transgression of a land many are the princes thereof: but by a man of understanding and knowledge the state thereof shall be prolonged."
Proverbs 28:3
"A poor man that oppresseth the poor is like a sweeping rain which leaveth no food."
Proverbs 28:4
"They that forsake the law praise the wicked: but such as keep the law contend"
Proverbs 28:5
"Evil men understand not judgment: but they that seek the LORD understand"
Proverbs 28:6
"Better is the poor that walketh in his uprightness, than he that is perverse in his ways, though he be rich."
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