The prince that wanteth understanding is also a great oppressor: but he that hateth covetousness shall prolong his days.

PROVERBS 28:16KJV
Know the Bible

Proverbs 28:16 (KJV)

What does Proverbs 28:16 mean?

Proverbs 28:16 warns that a ruler who lacks understanding becomes a harsh oppressor, while a leader who rejects greed will live longer. The verse contrasts the dangers of foolish, selfish leadership with the benefits of wise, self-controlled rule.

This proverb is part of a collection of wise sayings traditionally attributed to Solomon, aimed at teaching practical wisdom. The verse addresses anyone in authority, highlighting how a leader’s character—especially their attitude toward understanding and greed—directly affects both their people and their own well-being.

The Hebrew behind Proverbs 28:16

  • The word for "prince" is נָגִיד (nagid), which often refers to a leader or ruler, not just a royal prince. This broadens the warning to anyone in a position of authority.
  • "Wanteth understanding" uses חֲסַר־תְּבוּנָה (chasar-tevunáh), meaning "lacks insight or good sense." The focus is on practical wisdom, not just intelligence.
  • "Oppressor" is מַעֲשֵׁק (ma'ashēq), which means someone who exploits or crushes others, stressing the harm caused by foolish leadership.
  • "Covetousness" is בֶּצַע (betza'), meaning unjust gain or greed. The verse points out that rejecting dishonest profit is key to a long and stable life.

Why Proverbs 28:16 matters

  • Proverbs 28:16 clarifies that leadership is not just about power but about wisdom and self-control; lacking these leads to harm for both the leader and those under them.
  • The verse warns against the temptation of greed, showing that integrity and restraint are crucial for lasting influence and personal safety.
  • This proverb fits into a larger biblical theme that connects personal character with public consequences, especially for those in authority.

Where else these words appear

“oppressor” Hebrew H4642 · used in 2 verses

  • Isaiah 33:15 He that walketh righteously, and speaketh uprightly; he that despiseth the gain of oppressions, that shaketh his hands from holding of bribes, that stoppeth his ears from hearing of blood, and shutteth his eyes from seeing evil;

“wanteth” Hebrew H2638 · used in 19 verses

  • 1 Samuel 21:15 Have I need of mad men, that ye have brought this fellow to play the mad man in my presence? shall this fellow come into my house?
  • Proverbs 9:4 Whoso is simple, let him turn in hither: as for him that wanteth understanding, she saith to him,
  • Proverbs 12:11 He that tilleth his land shall be satisfied with bread: but he that followeth vain persons is void of understanding.

“covetousness” Hebrew H1215 · used in 23 verses

  • Genesis 37:26 And Judah said unto his brethren, What profit is it if we slay our brother, and conceal his blood?
  • Proverbs 1:19 So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof.
  • Jeremiah 22:17 But thine eyes and thine heart are not but for thy covetousness, and for to shed innocent blood, and for oppression, and for violence, to do it.

“prolong” Hebrew H748 · used in 34 verses

  • Genesis 26:8 And it came to pass, when he had been there a long time, that Abimelech king of the Philistines looked out at a window, and saw, and, behold, Isaac was sporting with Rebekah his wife.
  • Deuteronomy 22:7 But thou shalt in any wise let the dam go, and take the young to thee; that it may be well with thee, and that thou mayest prolong thy days.
  • Proverbs 19:11 The discretion of a man deferreth his anger; and it is his glory to pass over a transgression.