Proverbs 29:4
By justice a king gives a country stability, but those who are greedy for bribes tear it down.
In context
1 Whoever remains stiff-necked after many rebukes will suddenly be destroyed—without remedy. 2 When the righteous thrive, the people rejoice; when the wicked rule, the people groan. 3 A man who loves wisdom brings joy to his father, but a companion of prostitutes squanders his wealth. 4 By justice a king gives a country stability, but those who are greedy for bribes tear it down.
5 Those who flatter their neighbors are spreading nets for their feet. 6 Evildoers are snared by their own sin, but the righteous shout for joy and are glad. 7 The righteous care about justice for the poor, but the wicked have no such concern.
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.
- ESV English Standard Version
— Proverbs 29:4 in the ESV
By justice a king builds up the land, but he who exacts gifts tears it down.