Proverbs 28

2. The transgression of a land. Better, “rebellion.” “A revolt against a ruler leads to rapid changes of dynasty” (Plumptre).

the state [thereof] shall be prolonged. More literally, “order” or “stability shall long continue.”

4 praise the wicked. A sign of conscience dulled by sin (cp. Rom. i. 32).

5 understand not judgement. Their moral sense is deadened; whilst that of the godly is alive to “all” that is right and good: cp. 1 John ii. 20.

6 perverse in his ways. Rather, “perverse in double dealing.”

8. He that by usury, etc. Or, “He that by usury and gain increaseth his wealth, gathereth it for him,” etc. In spite of the laws in Lev. xxv. 35, Deut. xxiii., a ruinous rate of interest was often exacted of their brethren by Hebrew moneylenders. This gain would eventually go into the hands of those who would use it better.

10 the upright shall have good things in possession. Rather, “the perfect shall inherit good,” R.V.

12. When righteous men do rejoice. Rather, “When the righteous triumph, there is much splendour; but when the wicked rise, men will (must) be searched for”; i.e., hide themselves, or their wealth, for fear of injustice.

13 shall not prosper. No concealment can hide sin from Him who alone gives prosperity: cp. Psa. xxxii. 3-5; 1 John i. 8, 9.

14. Happy is the man that feareth alway. A sensitive, tender conscience is necessary to happiness and to safety. As penitent confession precedes (13), so godly fear always accompanies the enjoyment of pardon.

17. A man that doeth violence, etc. Rather, “A man burdened with the blood,” etc. He cannot escape, nor can any avert, his doom.

18. Whoso walketh uprightly, etc. Or, “He that walketh blamelessly shall be delivered; but he that is perverse in double ways shall fall in one (of them).”

20. A faithful man. One who fulfils his obligations; which he who hastens to be rich often disregards, and “shall not be unpunished” (R.V.): cp. 1 Tim. vi. 10.

21 for a piece of bread, etc. A man who takes bribes will come at last to violate his conscience for the most trifling advantage.

22. He that hasteth to be rich hath an evil eye. Rather, as R.V., “He that hath an evil eye hasteth to be rich”: cp. Matt. vi. 22, 23. The envious or selfish man is alluded to.

23. He that rebuketh a man afterwards, etc. Rather, as R.V., “He that rebuketh a man shall afterwards find more favour,” etc.

24 the companion of a destroyer. That is, of the deliberate villain, who is prepared for any crime: cp. Matt. xv. 4-6.

25 a proud heart. Rather, “a greedy spirit,” as R.V. The contrast is between an insatiate ambition for ever leading to collisions and quarrels with others, and peaceful, contented trust in God.

27 he that hideth his eyes. Who turns them away from the wants of others.