It is an abomination to kings to commit wickedness: for the throne is established by righteousness.
Other translations
It is an abomination for kings to do wrong, for the throne is established by righteousness.
It is an abomination to kings to commit wickedness: for the throne is established by righteousness.
Word study
Commentary
Matthew Henry
Here is, 1. The character of a good king, which Solomon intended not for his own praise, but for instruction to his successors, his neighbours, and the viceroys under him. A good king not only does justice, but it is an abomination to him to do otherwise. He hates the thought of doing wrong and perverting justice; he not only abhors the wickedness done by others, but abhors the wickedness done by others, but abhors to do any himself, though, having power, he might easily and safety do it. 2. The comfort of a good king: His throne is established by righteousness. He that makes conscience of using his power aright shall find that to be the best security of his government, both as it will oblige people, make them easy, and keep them in the interest of it, and as it will obtain the blessing of God, which will be a firm basis to the throne and a strong guard about it.
John Gill
It is an abomination to kings to commit wickedness,.... The Targum is,
"the abomination of kings are they that work wickedness.''
It should be an abomination to kings to commit wickedness themselves, and those that do it should be abhorred by them, or they should show their resentment at it by removing them from their presence, or by punishing them: and though there have been such kings as David, Psa 101:4; yet there are but few such; this is not true of kings in common; and therefore rather expresses what they should be than what they are; but is perfectly applicable to Christ, who loves righteousness and hates iniquity, Psa 45:7;
for the throne is established by righteousness; this is the support, strength, and security of every kingdom, and of the thrones of kings; and it is with judgment and righteousness that the throne of Christ is established; yea, justice and judgment are the habitation of his throne, Isa 9:7.
JFB
Rulers are rightly expected, by their position, to hate evil; for their power is sustained by righteousness.
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