Proverbs 16:10
A divine sentence is in the lips of the king: his mouth transgresseth not in judgment.
Original Language Analysis
קֶ֤סֶם׀
A divine sentence
H7081
קֶ֤סֶם׀
A divine sentence
Strong's:
H7081
Word #:
1 of 8
a lot; also divination (including its fee), oracle
עַֽל
H5921
עַֽל
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
2 of 8
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
שִׂפְתֵי
is in the lips
H8193
שִׂפְתֵי
is in the lips
Strong's:
H8193
Word #:
3 of 8
the lip (as a natural boundary); by implication, language; by analogy, a margin (of a vessel, water, cloth, etc.)
בְּ֝מִשְׁפָּ֗ט
not in judgment
H4941
בְּ֝מִשְׁפָּ֗ט
not in judgment
Strong's:
H4941
Word #:
5 of 8
properly, a verdict (favorable or unfavorable) pronounced judicially, especially a sentence or formal decree (human or (participant's) divine law, ind
לֹ֣א
H3808
לֹ֣א
Strong's:
H3808
Word #:
6 of 8
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern kings often claimed divine status or absolute authority. Israel's theology insisted that even kings were under God's law (Deuteronomy 17:18-20), making this verse a reminder of righteous rule's true source.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you respond to authorities when their judgments fall short of this ideal?
- In what ways does Christ exemplify the perfect King described in this verse?
- If you hold leadership positions, how does this standard challenge your decision-making?
Analysis & Commentary
A king's lips speak with 'divine sentence' (Hebrew 'qesem'—oracle or authoritative decision), and his mouth 'transgresseth not in judgment.' This describes the ideal king who speaks with God-given wisdom and never perverts justice. This points typologically to Christ, the perfect King whose judgments are always righteous. Reformed theology's doctrine of the magistrate emphasizes that earthly rulers derive authority from God and must govern justly. Kings are not autonomous but accountable to divine law. This verse sets the standard for godly leadership.