Proverbs 16:13
Lips of righteousness are the delight of kings; and he who says what is upright is dear to him.
Bible in Basic English
In The King James Version
Righteous lips are the delight of kings; and they love him that speaketh right.
In Context
12Evil-doing is disgusting to kings: for the seat of the ruler is based on righteousness.
Cross References
Proverbs 14:35The king has pleasure in a servant who does wisely, but his wrath is against him who is a cause of shame.
Matthew Henry on Proverbs 16:13
12 It is an abomination to kings to commit wickedness: for the throne is established by righteousness. Here is, 1. The character of a good king, which Solomon intended not for his own praise, but for instruction to his successors, his neighbours, and the viceroys under him. A good king not only does justice, but it is an abomination to him to do otherwise. He hates the thought of doing wrong and perverting justice; he not only abhors the wickedness done by others, but abhors the wickedness done by others, but… Read the whole commentary →