² Because of the transgression of a land, many are its princes;
But by a man of understanding and knowledge
Right will be prolonged.

¹² When the righteous rejoice, there is great ^(A)glory;
But when the wicked arise, men ^[a]hide themselves.

^15 (A)Like a roaring lion and a charging bear
^(B)Is a wicked ruler over poor people.

¹⁶ A ruler who lacks understanding is a great ^(C)oppressor,
But he who hates covetousness will prolong his days.

^17 (D)A man burdened with bloodshed will flee into a pit;
Let no one help him.

²⁸ When the wicked arise, ^(A)men hide themselves;
But when they perish, the righteous increase.

² When the righteous ^[a]are in authority, the ^(A)people rejoice;
But when a wicked man rules, ^(B)the people groan.

⁴ The king establishes the land by justice,
But he who receives bribes overthrows it.

¹² If a ruler pays attention to lies,
All his servants become wicked.

¹⁴ The king who judges the ^(A)poor with truth,
His throne will be established forever.

¹⁶ When the wicked are multiplied, transgression increases;
But the righteous will see their ^(A)fall.

^18 (A)Where there is no ^[a]revelation, the people cast off restraint;
But ^(B)happy is he who keeps the law.