Verse (Click for Chapter) New International Version By justice a king gives a country stability, but those who are greedy for bribes tear it down. New Living Translation A just king gives stability to his nation, but one who demands bribes destroys it. English Standard Version By justice a king builds up the land, but he who exacts gifts tears it down. Berean Standard Bible By justice a king brings stability to the land, but a man who exacts tribute demolishes it. King James Bible The king by judgment establisheth the land: but he that receiveth gifts overthroweth it. New King James Version The king establishes the land by justice, But he who receives bribes overthrows it. New American Standard Bible The king gives stability to the land by justice, But a person who takes bribes ruins it. NASB 1995 The king gives stability to the land by justice, But a man who takes bribes overthrows it. NASB 1977 The king gives stability to the land by justice, But a man who takes bribes overthrows it. Legacy Standard Bible By justice the king causes the land to stand, But a man of bribes tears it down. Amplified Bible The king establishes (stabilizes) the land by justice, But a man who takes bribes overthrows it. Christian Standard Bible By justice a king brings stability to a land, but a person who demands “contributions” demolishes it. Holman Christian Standard Bible By justice a king brings stability to a land, but a man who demands “contributions” demolishes it. American Standard Version The king by justice establisheth the land; But he that exacteth gifts overthroweth it. Contemporary English Version An honest ruler makes the nation strong; a ruler who takes bribes will bring it to ruin. English Revised Version The king by judgment establisheth the land: but he that exacteth gifts overthroweth it. GOD'S WORD® Translation By means of justice, a king builds up a country, but a person who confiscates religious contributions tears it down. Good News Translation When the king is concerned with justice, the nation will be strong, but when he is only concerned with money, he will ruin his country. International Standard Version A king brings stability to a land through justice, but a man who takes bribes brings it to ruin. NET Bible A king brings stability to a land by justice, but one who exacts tribute tears it down. New Heart English Bible The king by justice makes the land stable, but he who takes bribes tears it down. Webster's Bible Translation The king by judgment establisheth the land: but he that receiveth gifts overthroweth it. Majority Text Translations Majority Standard BibleBy justice a king brings stability to the land, but a man who exacts tribute demolishes it. World English Bible The king by justice makes the land stable, but he who takes bribes tears it down. Literal Translations Literal Standard VersionA king establishes a land by judgment, "" And one receiving gifts throws it down. Young's Literal Translation A king by judgment establisheth a land, And one receiving gifts throweth it down. Smith's Literal Translation A king in judgment shall establish the land: and a man of presents shall overthrow it. Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleA just king setteth up the land: a covetous man shall destroy it. Catholic Public Domain Version A just king guides the land. A man of avarice will destroy it. New American Bible By justice a king builds up the land; but one who raises taxes tears it down. New Revised Standard Version By justice a king gives stability to the land, but one who makes heavy exactions ruins it. Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleThe king by justice enriches the land; but a wicked man causes it to be in want. Peshitta Holy Bible Translated The king by judgment establishes the land, and the evil one deprives it. OT Translations JPS Tanakh 1917The king by justice establisheth the land; But he that exacteth gifts overthroweth it. Brenton Septuagint Translation A righteous king establishes a country: but a transgressor destroys it. Additional Translations ... Audio Bible Context The Stiff-Necked will Be Destroyed…3A man who loves wisdom brings joy to his father, but a companion of prostitutes squanders his wealth. 4By justice a king brings stability to the land, but a man who exacts tribute demolishes it. 5A man who flatters his neighbor spreads a net for his feet.… Cross References Isaiah 32:1 Behold, a king will reign in righteousness, and princes will rule with justice. 2 Samuel 23:3 The God of Israel spoke; the Rock of Israel said to me, ‘He who rules the people with justice, who rules in the fear of God, Jeremiah 22:13-17 “Woe to him who builds his palace by unrighteousness, and his upper rooms without justice, who makes his countrymen serve without pay, and fails to pay their wages, / who says, ‘I will build myself a great palace, with spacious upper rooms.’ So he cuts windows in it, panels it with cedar, and paints it with vermilion. / Does it make you a king to excel in cedar? Did not your father have food and drink? He administered justice and righteousness, and so it went well with him. ... Psalm 72:1-4 Of Solomon. Endow the king with Your justice, O God, and the son of the king with Your righteousness. / May he judge Your people with righteousness and Your afflicted with justice. / May the mountains bring peace to the people, and the hills bring righteousness. ... Proverbs 16:12 Wicked behavior is detestable for kings, for a throne is established through righteousness. Proverbs 20:28 Loving devotion and faithfulness preserve a king; by these he maintains his throne. Proverbs 28:15-16 Like a roaring lion or a charging bear is a wicked ruler over a helpless people. / A leader who lacks judgment is also a great oppressor, but he who hates dishonest profit will prolong his days. 1 Kings 10:9 Blessed be the LORD your God, who has delighted in you to set you on the throne of Israel. Because of the LORD’s eternal love for Israel, He has made you king to carry out justice and righteousness.” 1 Timothy 2:1-2 First of all, then, I urge that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgiving be offered for everyone— / for kings and all those in authority—so that we may lead tranquil and quiet lives in all godliness and dignity. Romans 13:3-4 For rulers are not a terror to good conduct, but to bad. Do you want to be unafraid of the one in authority? Then do what is right, and you will have his approval. / For he is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not carry the sword in vain. He is God’s servant, an agent of retribution to the wrongdoer. 1 Peter 2:13-14 Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human institution, whether to the king as the supreme authority, / or to governors as those sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to praise those who do right. Isaiah 9:7 Of the increase of His government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish and sustain it with justice and righteousness from that time and forevermore. The zeal of the LORD of Hosts will accomplish this. Ezekiel 45:9 For this is what the Lord GOD says: ‘Enough, O princes of Israel! Cease your violence and oppression, and do what is just and right. Stop dispossessing My people, declares the Lord GOD.’ Micah 3:1-3 Then I said: “Hear now, O leaders of Jacob, you rulers of the house of Israel. Should you not know justice? / You hate good and love evil. You tear the skin from my people and strip the flesh from their bones. / You eat the flesh of my people after stripping off their skin and breaking their bones. You chop them up like flesh for the cooking pot, like meat in a cauldron.” Matthew 20:25-28 But Jesus called them aside and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their superiors exercise authority over them. / It shall not be this way among you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, / and whoever wants to be first among you must be your slave— ... Treasury of Scripture The king by judgment establishes the land: but he that receives gifts overthrows it. king Proverbs 29:14 The king that faithfully judgeth the poor, his throne shall be established for ever. Proverbs 16:12 It is an abomination to kings to commit wickedness: for the throne is established by righteousness. Proverbs 20:8 A king that sitteth in the throne of judgment scattereth away all evil with his eyes. he that receiveth gifts 2 Kings 15:18-20 And he did that which was evil in the sight of the LORD: he departed not all his days from the sins of Jeroboam the son of Nebat, who made Israel to sin… Jeremiah 22:13-17 Woe unto him that buildeth his house by unrighteousness, and his chambers by wrong; that useth his neighbour's service without wages, and giveth him not for his work; … Daniel 11:20 Then shall stand up in his estate a raiser of taxes in the glory of the kingdom: but within few days he shall be destroyed, neither in anger, nor in battle. Jump to Previous Bribes Country Desires Establisheth Exacteth Exacts Full Gifts Gives Greedy Judgment Justice Makes Overthroweth Overthrows Receiveth Receiving Right Ruins Rule Safe Stability Stable Tears Throweth WasteJump to Next Bribes Country Desires Establisheth Exacteth Exacts Full Gifts Gives Greedy Judgment Justice Makes Overthroweth Overthrows Receiveth Receiving Right Ruins Rule Safe Stability Stable Tears Throweth WasteProverbs 29 1. observations of public government15. and of private 22. Of anger, pride, thievery, cowardice and corruption By justice a king brings stability to the land Justice is a central theme in the Bible, often associated with righteousness and fairness. In the context of ancient Israel, a king was expected to rule with justice, reflecting God's own character (Psalm 89:14). The stability mentioned here refers to peace and prosperity, which are the results of just governance. Historical examples include King Solomon, whose wisdom and fair judgments brought peace and prosperity to Israel (1 Kings 4:20-25). Justice in leadership is a recurring theme in the Old Testament, with prophets like Isaiah and Jeremiah calling for rulers to act justly (Isaiah 1:17, Jeremiah 22:3). This phrase also foreshadows the ultimate just ruler, Jesus Christ, whose reign is characterized by perfect justice and peace (Isaiah 9:7). but a man who exacts tribute demolishes it Persons / Places / Events 1. KingRepresents leadership and authority, often seen as a ruler who has the power to influence the stability and prosperity of a nation. 2. Land Symbolizes the nation or community under the king's rule, reflecting the well-being and order of society. 3. Justice The practice of fairness and righteousness, crucial for maintaining stability and peace within a society. 4. Tribute Refers to excessive taxation or exploitation, which can lead to the downfall and instability of a nation. 5. Solomon Traditionally considered the author of Proverbs, known for his wisdom and understanding of governance and justice. Teaching Points The Role of Justice in LeadershipJustice is foundational for a stable and prosperous society. Leaders must prioritize fairness and righteousness to maintain order and peace. The Dangers of Exploitation Leaders who exploit their people for personal gain undermine the very foundation of their authority and risk societal collapse. Biblical Model of Governance The Bible provides a model for governance that emphasizes justice, mercy, and humility, which should guide Christian leaders in all areas of influence. Personal Application of Justice While this proverb speaks to leaders, individuals are also called to act justly in their personal and professional lives, contributing to the stability of their communities. Consequences of Ignoring Wisdom Ignoring wise counsel and pursuing selfish gain leads to division and destruction, as seen in the biblical account of Rehoboam. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1. What is the meaning of Proverbs 29:4?2. How does Proverbs 29:4 define a king's role in establishing a nation? 3. What are the consequences of "taking bribes" according to Proverbs 29:4? 4. How can leaders today apply the principles of Proverbs 29:4 in governance? 5. Which other scriptures emphasize the dangers of corruption and bribery? 6. How can individuals promote justice and integrity in their communities? 7. How does Proverbs 29:4 reflect on the role of leadership in society? 8. What historical context influenced the writing of Proverbs 29:4? 9. How does Proverbs 29:4 align with modern views on justice and governance? 10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Proverbs 29? 11. What laws should govern the actions of kings? 12. What does the Bible say about societal hierarchy? 13. What does the Bible say about societal hierarchy? 14. Does the call to heed a father's instruction in Proverbs 4:1 ignore the possibility of flawed or harmful parental guidance? What Does Proverbs 29:4 Mean By justice“By justice a king brings stability…” (Proverbs 29:4a). Justice here isn’t a vague ideal; it is the everyday application of God’s righteous standards. Scripture consistently presents justice as: • Fair weights and measures (Leviticus 19:35–36). • Impartial courts (Deuteronomy 16:18–20). • Advocacy for the vulnerable (Psalm 72:2; Isaiah 1:17). When a ruler adopts these priorities, he aligns with the Lord who “loves justice” (Isaiah 61:8) and mirrors David, who “administered justice and righteousness for all his people” (2 Samuel 8:15). a king Earthly authority is God-ordained (Romans 13:1-4). A king—or any leader—acts as God’s servant for the public good. Proverbs repeats the theme: “Kings detest wrongdoing” (Proverbs 16:12) and “Loyal love and faithfulness guard a king” (Proverbs 20:28). That calling leaves no room for personal agendas; the ruler is accountable to the King of kings (Psalm 2:10-12). brings stability to the land When justice rules, society enjoys: • Peaceful living (1 Timothy 2:2). • Economic security (Psalm 72:3). • Moral clarity (Proverbs 14:34). Stability means people can plant crops, run businesses, raise families—confident the law protects them. Isaiah envisioned such blessed calm: “A king will reign in righteousness… each one will be like a shelter from the wind” (Isaiah 32:1-2). but Scripture often uses “but” to introduce a sharp moral contrast (Proverbs 14:11; 15:6). Here it signals the clashing outcomes of two leadership styles: the just versus the exploitative. a man who exacts tribute “Exacting tribute” pictures a ruler squeezing the people for personal gain—heavy taxes, forced labor, bribery. Rehoboam’s disastrous policy fits the description (1 Kings 12:13-16). Other warnings appear in Proverbs 28:16, “A leader who lacks understanding burdens his people with oppressive taxes.” John the Baptist told tax collectors, “Collect no more than what you are authorized” (Luke 3:13). demolishes it Oppression rots a nation from within: • Social unrest (1 Kings 12:19). • Economic collapse (Habakkuk 2:6-8). • Divine judgment (Isaiah 5:8-10; Amos 5:11-12). What justice builds, greed tears down. The land that could flourish instead crumbles under distrust and rebellion. summary Proverbs 29:4 draws a straight line: righteous leadership = national stability; exploitative leadership = national ruin. God’s design is clear—authority exists to serve, protect, and bless, never to enrich itself. Wise rulers walk in justice, and wise citizens pray for and support such leadership, knowing the well-being of the whole community rests on it. (4) By judgment.--Upright decisions.He that receiveth gifts.--To pervert justice (Proverbs 15:27). Verse 4. - Many of the proverbs in this chapter seem to suit the time of Jeroboam II. (see on Proverbs 28:3). The king by judgment establisheth the land. The king, the fountain of justice, by his equitable government brings his country into a healthy and settled condition (1 Kings 15:4; comp. Ver. 14; Proverbs 16:12; Proverbs 25:5). In the security of the throne the land and people participate. He that receiveth gifts overthroweth it. The expression, אִישׁ תְּרוּמות (ish terumoth), "man of offerings," "man of gifts," is ambiguous: it may mean "the taker of bribes," the unrighteous ruler who sells justice (Proverbs 15:27), or it may signify "the imposer of taxes" (Ezekiel 45:13, etc.) or forced benevolences. Aquila and Theodotion have ἀνὴρ ἀφαιρεμάτων, "man of heave offerings," and Wordsworth regards him as a man who claims and receives gifts, as if he were a deity on earth. Whichever sense we give to the phrase, the contrast lies between the inflexibly upright ruler and the iniquitous or extortionate prince. The Septuagint gives παράνομος, "a transgressor;" Vulgate, vir avarus.Parallel Commentaries ... Hebrew By justiceבְּ֭מִשְׁפָּט (bə·miš·pāṭ) Preposition-b | Noun - masculine singular Strong's 4941: A verdict, a sentence, formal decree, divine law, penalty, justice, privilege, style a king מֶ֗לֶךְ (me·leḵ) Noun - masculine singular Strong's 4428: A king gives stability יַעֲמִ֣יד (ya·‘ă·mîḏ) Verb - Hifil - Imperfect - third person masculine singular Strong's 5975: To stand, in various relations to the land, אָ֑רֶץ (’ā·reṣ) Noun - feminine singular Strong's 776: Earth, land but a man וְאִ֖ישׁ (wə·’îš) Conjunctive waw | Noun - masculine singular construct Strong's 376: A man as an individual, a male person who exacts tribute תְּרוּמ֣וֹת (tə·rū·mō·wṯ) Noun - feminine plural Strong's 8641: Contribution, offering (for sacred uses) demolishes it. יֶֽהֶרְסֶֽנָּה׃ (ye·her·sen·nāh) Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person masculine singular | third person feminine singular Strong's 2040: To pull down, in pieces, break, & destroy Links Proverbs 29:4 NIVProverbs 29:4 NLT Proverbs 29:4 ESV Proverbs 29:4 NASB Proverbs 29:4 KJV Proverbs 29:4 BibleApps.com Proverbs 29:4 Biblia Paralela Proverbs 29:4 Chinese Bible Proverbs 29:4 French Bible Proverbs 29:4 Catholic Bible OT Poetry: Proverbs 29:4 The king by justice makes the land (Prov. 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