Proverbs 16:12 - Exposition

It is an abomination to kings to commit wickedness. This and the following verse give the ideal view of the monarch—that which he ought to be rather than what be is (comp. Psalms 72:1-20 .). Certainly neither Solomon nor many of his successors exhibited this high character. The Septuagint, followed by some modern commentators, translates, "He who doeth wickedness is an abomination to kings;" but as the "righteousness" in the second clause ( the throne is established by righteousness ) undoubtedly refers to the king, so it is more natural to take the "wickedness" in the first member as being his own, not his subjects'. When a ruler acts justly and wisely, punishes the unruly, rewards the virtuous, acts as God's vicegerent, and himself sets the example of the character which becomes so high a position, he wins the affection of his people, they willingly obey him. and are ready to die for him and his family (comp. Proverbs 25:5 ; Isaiah 16:5 ). Lawmakers should not be law breakers. Seneca, 'Thyest.,' 215—

" Ubi non est pudor,

Nec cura juris, sanctitas, pietas, fides,

Instabile regnum est ."