Proverbs 29:2
When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice: but when the wicked beareth rule, the people mourn.
Original Language Analysis
יִשְׂמַ֣ח
rejoice
H8055
יִשְׂמַ֣ח
rejoice
Strong's:
H8055
Word #:
3 of 8
probably to brighten up, i.e., (figuratively) be (causatively, make) blithe or gleesome
עָֽם׃
the people
H5971
עָֽם׃
the people
Strong's:
H5971
Word #:
4 of 8
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
Cross References
Proverbs 28:12When righteous men do rejoice, there is great glory: but when the wicked rise, a man is hidden.Proverbs 11:10When it goeth well with the righteous, the city rejoiceth: and when the wicked perish, there is shouting.Esther 8:15And Mordecai went out from the presence of the king in royal apparel of blue and white, and with a great crown of gold, and with a garment of fine linen and purple: and the city of Shushan rejoiced and was glad.Proverbs 28:28When the wicked rise, men hide themselves: but when they perish, the righteous increase.Ecclesiastes 10:5There is an evil which I have seen under the sun, as an error which proceedeth from the ruler:Esther 3:15The posts went out, being hastened by the king's commandment, and the decree was given in Shushan the palace. And the king and Haman sat down to drink; but the city Shushan was perplexed.Revelation 11:15And the seventh angel sounded; and there were great voices in heaven, saying, The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever.
Historical Context
Israel's history illustrated this repeatedly: righteous kings like Hezekiah and Josiah brought reform and joy; wicked kings like Manasseh and Jehoiakim brought oppression and judgment.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you work toward righteous governance in your political involvement?
- What characteristics of righteous vs. wicked rule do you see in contemporary governance?
- How should this verse shape your political priorities and engagement?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
When the righteous 'are in authority, the people rejoice,' but when the wicked rule, 'the people mourn.' The Hebrew 'rabah' (increase/multiply) and 'mashal' (rule) create contrast. Righteous leadership produces joy; wicked rule brings groaning. Reformed theology recognizes government as God's gift for human flourishing. Righteous rulers promote justice, peace, and prosperity; wicked rulers bring oppression and suffering. This grounds Christian political responsibility—we should work for righteous governance that enables human flourishing under God's standards.