Proverbs 16:12
It should be an abomination to kings to commit wickedness; for through righteousness [alone] can a throne be established.
Leeser Tanakh
In The King James Version
It is an abomination to kings to commit wickedness: for the throne is established by righteousness.
In Context
11A just balance and scales belong to the Lord: his work are all the weights in the bag.
13Righteous lips [should obtain] the favor of kings; and him that speaketh uprightly should they love.
Cross References
2 Chronicles 17:5Therefore did the Lord establish the kingdom in his hand; and all Judah gave presents to Jehoshaphat; and he had riches and honor in abundance.
Proverbs 20:18Plans are established by counsel; and with wise reflection conduct war.
Proverbs 28:9When one turneth away his ear so as not to listen to the law, even his prayer becometh an abomination.
Proverbs 29:14When a king judgeth in truth the indigent, his throne shall stand firmly for ever.
Matthew Henry on Proverbs 16:12
11 A just weight and balance are the Lord 's: all the weights of the bag are his work. Note, 1. The administration of public justice by the magistrate is an ordinance of God; in it the scales are held, and ought to be held by a steady and impartial hand; and we ought to submit to it, for the Lord's sake, and to see his authority in that of the magistrate, Rom. xiii. 1 ; 1 Pet. ii. 13 . 2. The observance of justice in commerce between man and man is likewise a divine appointment. He taught men discretion to make… Read the whole commentary →