Bible Commentaries

The wicked ^a flee when no man pursueth: but the righteous are bold as a lion.

(a) Because their own conscience accuses them.

For the transgression of a land ^b many [are] its princes: but by a man of understanding [and] knowledge [its] state shall be prolonged.

(b) The state of the commonwealth is often changed.

He that by interest and unjust gain increaseth his substance, he shall gather ^c it for him that will pity the poor.

(c) For God will take away the wicked usurer, and give his goods to him that will bestow them well.

He that turneth away his ear from hearing the law, even his prayer [shall be] ^d abomination.

(d) Because it is not of faith which is grounded on God's word or law which the wicked contemn.

The rich man [is] wise in his own conceit; but the poor man that hath understanding searcheth ^e him out.

(e) And judge that he is not wise.

When righteous [men] rejoice, [there is] great glory: but when the wicked rise, a man ^f is hidden.

(f) He is known by his doings to be wicked.

Happy [is] the man that ^g feareth always: but he that hardeneth his heart shall fall into mischief.

(g) Which stands in awe of God, and is afraid to offend him.

[As] a roaring lion, and a ranging bear; [so is] ^h a wicked ruler over the poor people.

(h) For he can never be satisfied but always oppresses and spoils.

A man that doeth violence to the blood of [any] person shall flee to the pit; let no man ⁱ sustain him.

(i) No one will be able to deliver him.

To have respect of persons [is] not good: for for a piece of ^k bread [that] man will transgress.

(k) He will be abused for nothing.

He that hasteneth to be rich [hath] an evil ^l eye, and considereth not that poverty shall come upon him.

(l) Meaning, he that is covetous.

He that is of a proud heart stirreth up strife: but he that putteth his trust in the LORD shall be made ^m fat.

(m) Will have all things in abundance.