16:14 16:14

Proverbs 16:15

16:16 16:16

Bible Versions

In the light of the king's countenance [is] life; and his favour [is] as a cloud of the latter rain.
In the light {H216} of the king's {H4428} countenance {H6440} is life {H2416}; and his favour {H7522} is as a cloud {H5645} of the latter rain {H4456}.
When the king's face brightens, it means life; his favor is like the clouds that bring spring rain.
When a king’s face brightens, there is life; his favor is like a rain cloud in spring.
In the light of the king’s countenance is life; And his favor is as a cloud of the latter rain.

Proverbs 16:15 states, "In the light of the king's countenance [is] life; and his favour [is] as a cloud of the latter rain." This proverb highlights the profound impact of a ruler's disposition and goodwill on his subjects, drawing a powerful analogy to essential natural blessings.

Context

The book of Proverbs frequently offers wisdom concerning earthly governance and the ideal characteristics of kings and leaders. This verse fits within a broader section (Proverbs 16:10-15) that discusses the importance of righteous and just leadership, often acknowledging the divine hand in establishing and guiding rulers. While immediately applicable to human monarchs, the underlying principles often point to the ultimate sovereignty and benevolent rule of God Himself. Understanding this context helps us appreciate the significance of righteousness in leadership.

Key Themes

  • The King's Influence: The "light of the king's countenance" refers to his favorable disposition, his approval, and the joy or peace reflected in his face. When a king is pleased and benevolent, it brings prosperity, security, and well-being to his people. Conversely, his displeasure can bring severe consequences. This emphasizes the immense power and responsibility of those in authority.
  • Divine Favor and Provision: The comparison of the king's favor to "a cloud of the latter rain" is highly significant. In ancient Israel, the latter rain (spring rains) was crucial for the ripening of crops and ensuring a bountiful harvest. It symbolized refreshing, renewal, and abundant provision. Just as this rain brings life to the land, a ruler's favor brings flourishing to the kingdom. This imagery also subtly points to God's ultimate provision and blessing, which is the true source of all life and abundance, as seen in Deuteronomy 11:14.
  • Life and Flourishing: The term "life" here is not merely existence but signifies vitality, prosperity, well-being, and security. A king's positive disposition can literally mean the difference between flourishing and hardship for his subjects.

Linguistic Insights

  • The Hebrew word for "countenance" is panim, which literally means "face." It denotes presence, disposition, and expression. A king's "bright face" (a literal interpretation) signifies his goodwill and blessing.
  • "Latter rain" translates the Hebrew word malqosh, referring to the crucial spring rains that fall in March or April, essential for the final growth and ripening of the grain harvest. Its absence meant famine, while its presence promised abundance. This term powerfully conveys the idea of vital, timely, and life-sustaining blessing.

Practical Application

While this proverb speaks of earthly kings, its wisdom extends to all forms of leadership and ultimately points to God. For believers, the ultimate "King" is the Lord. Seeking the light of God's countenance—His presence, approval, and favor—is the source of true spiritual and physical life. Just as the latter rain sustains the earth, God's favor refreshes and brings forth fruit in our lives. This verse reminds us:

  1. Responsibility of Leaders: Those in positions of authority should recognize the immense impact their disposition, decisions, and favor have on those they lead. A compassionate, just, and benevolent approach fosters flourishing.
  2. Seeking Divine Favor: Ultimately, our truest "life" and deepest "favour" come from God. We are encouraged to seek His face and live in a way that pleases Him, knowing that His blessing is the ultimate "latter rain" for our souls, providing spiritual growth and provision.
Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Psalms 72:6

    He shall come down like rain upon the mown grass: as showers [that] water the earth.

  • Job 29:23

    And they waited for me as for the rain; and they opened their mouth wide [as] for the latter rain.

  • Job 29:24

    [If] I laughed on them, they believed [it] not; and the light of my countenance they cast not down.

  • Acts 2:28

    Thou hast made known to me the ways of life; thou shalt make me full of joy with thy countenance.

  • Hosea 6:3

    Then shall we know, [if] we follow on to know the LORD: his going forth is prepared as the morning; and he shall come unto us as the rain, as the latter [and] former rain unto the earth.

  • Psalms 21:6

    For thou hast made him most blessed for ever: thou hast made him exceeding glad with thy countenance.

  • Proverbs 19:12

    ¶ The king's wrath [is] as the roaring of a lion; but his favour [is] as dew upon the grass.
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