Proverbs 29:4
By justice a king builds up the land, but he who exacts gifts tears it down.
In context
1 He who is often reproved, yet stiffens his neck, will suddenly be broken beyond healing. 2 When the righteous increase, the people rejoice, but when the wicked rule, the people groan. 3 He who loves wisdom makes his father glad, but a companion of prostitutes squanders his wealth. 4 By justice a king builds up the land, but he who exacts gifts tears it down.
5 A man who flatters his neighbor spreads a net for his feet. 6 An evil man is ensnared in his transgression, but a righteous man sings and rejoices. 7 A righteous man knows the rights of the poor; a wicked man does not understand such knowledge.
Compare in other versions
- KJV King James Version
— Proverbs 29:4 in the KJV
The king by judgment establisheth the land: But he that receiveth gifts overthroweth it.
- NIV New International Version
— Proverbs 29:4 in the NIV
By justice a king gives a country stability, but those who are greedy for bribes tear it down.