Proverbs 29:12
If a ruler hearken to lies, all his servants are wicked.
Original Language Analysis
עַל
H5921
עַל
Strong's:
H5921
Word #:
3 of 8
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
דְּבַר
to lies
H1697
דְּבַר
to lies
Strong's:
H1697
Word #:
4 of 8
a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
שָׁ֑קֶר
H8267
כָּֽל
H3605
כָּֽל
Strong's:
H3605
Word #:
6 of 8
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
Historical Context
Solomon witnessed court intrigue firsthand—Adonijah's conspiracy, Joab and Shimei's treachery. The king's wisdom or folly in choosing advisors determined the kingdom's fate. The proverb warns future rulers that their willingness to hear truth versus flattery shapes the character of their entire administration.
Questions for Reflection
- How do leaders today—in church, business, politics—create cultures that either reward truth-telling or punish it?
- What accountability structures prevent rulers from surrounding themselves with deceitful counselors?
- In what ways might you function as a 'wicked servant' by telling leaders what they want to hear rather than what is true?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
If a ruler hearken to lies (מֹשֵׁל מַקְשִׁיב עַל־דְּבַר־שָׁקֶר)—when a ruler (moshel) gives attention to (maqshib, listens/hearkens) deceitful words (debar shaqer, false testimony), all his servants are wicked (כָּל־מְשָׁרְתָיו רְשָׁעִים). Leadership sets moral tone from the top down. A ruler who rewards falsehood cultivates a court of flatterers, schemers, and corrupt officials.
This principle operates institutionally: when leadership tolerates or rewards dishonesty, the entire organization becomes corrupted. Truthful people either leave or are driven out; only the wicked thrive. We see this in Ahab's court where 400 false prophets surrounded him while Micaiah alone spoke truth (1 Kings 22). Rehoboam's folly in following bad counsel cost him most of his kingdom (1 Kings 12).