Proverbs 28:28

ยถ When the wicked rise, men hide themselves: but when they perish, the righteous increase.

When the wicked {H7563} rise {H6965}, men {H120} hide {H5641} themselves: but when they perish {H6}, the righteous {H6662} increase {H7235}.

When the wicked rise up, people hide; but when they perish, the righteous flourish.

When the wicked come to power, people hide themselves; but when they perish, the righteous flourish.

When the wicked rise, men hide themselves; But when they perish, the righteous increase.

Commentary

Proverbs 28:28 offers a stark contrast illustrating the profound impact of leadership on society. This verse from the KJV highlights the consequences of wicked governance versus the blessings that follow the removal of such corruption.

Context

The Book of Proverbs is part of the Old Testament's wisdom literature, offering practical guidance for living a life that honors God and benefits humanity. Many proverbs, including this one, address themes of justice, righteousness, and the importance of good leadership. In ancient Near Eastern societies, the character of rulers directly affected the daily lives of the populace, from economic stability to personal safety. This verse speaks to the observable realities of such governance.

Key Themes

  • The Impact of Wicked Leadership: When unrighteous individuals gain power, the immediate consequence is fear and oppression. People are compelled to "hide themselves," indicating a lack of security, freedom, and an environment where justice is absent. This reflects a society living under duress and uncertainty.
  • The Hope of Righteous Rule: Conversely, the verse provides a hopeful outlook. When the wicked are removed from power or "perish," society experiences a flourishing of the righteous. This "increase" can signify not only a growth in their numbers but also their ability to thrive, live openly, and contribute positively to the community, leading to societal well-being and peace.
  • Divine Justice and Order: Underlying this observation is the principle that God's moral order ultimately prevails. Though the wicked may rise temporarily, their downfall is inevitable, paving the way for righteousness to flourish, reflecting God's justice in human affairs.

Linguistic Insights

  • The Hebrew word for "rise" (ืงื•ึผื, qum) implies not just standing up, but also establishing oneself in power or authority. So, "When the wicked rise" means when they come to rule.
  • "Hide themselves" (ื—ึธื‘ึธื, chava) vividly portrays a state of fear and vulnerability, where people must conceal their activities or even their presence to avoid harm or injustice from corrupt authorities.
  • "Perish" (ืึธื‘ึทื“, avad) here refers to the downfall, destruction, or removal from power of the wicked rulers. It signifies the end of their oppressive reign.
  • "Increase" (ืจึธื‘ึธื”, rabah) suggests multiplication, growth, and flourishing. When wicked rule ceases, the righteous are free to prosper, grow in number, and exert a positive influence on society.

Practical Application

This proverb carries timeless relevance for any society. It underscores the critical importance of ethical and just leadership, whether in government, business, or community. When wicked rulers rise, people often feel compelled to mourn and hide themselves. Conversely, the downfall of corrupt power brings relief and allows for societal progress and the flourishing of those who seek righteousness. It encourages believers to pray for their leaders and to advocate for justice, understanding that a just society allows the righteous to flourish and contribute to the common good.

The verse also serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty over nations and leaders, providing hope that even in times of oppression, divine justice will ultimately prevail, leading to a season where righteousness can truly increase.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated โ€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Proverbs 29:2

    ยถ When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice: but when the wicked beareth rule, the people mourn.

  • Job 24:4

    They turn the needy out of the way: the poor of the earth hide themselves together.

  • Proverbs 28:12

    ยถ When righteous [men] do rejoice, [there is] great glory: but when the wicked rise, a man is hidden.

  • Acts 12:23

    And immediately the angel of the Lord smote him, because he gave not God the glory: and he was eaten of worms, and gave up the ghost.

  • Acts 12:24

    But the word of God grew and multiplied.

  • Esther 8:17

    And in every province, and in every city, whithersoever the king's commandment and his decree came, the Jews had joy and gladness, a feast and a good day. And many of the people of the land became Jews; for the fear of the Jews fell upon them.
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