Verse 1

The wicked a flee when no man pursueth: but the righteous are bold as a lion.

(a) Because their own conscience accuses them.

Verse 2

For the transgression of a land b many [are] its princes: but by a man of understanding [and] knowledge [its] state shall be prolonged.

(b) The state of the commonwealth is often changed.

Verse 8

He that by interest and unjust gain increaseth his substance, he shall gather c it for him that will pity the poor.

(c) For God will take away the wicked usurer, and give his goods to him that will bestow them well.

Verse 9

He that turneth away his ear from hearing the law, even his prayer [shall be] d abomination.

(d) Because it is not of faith which is grounded on God's word or law which the wicked contemn.

Verse 11

The rich man [is] wise in his own conceit; but the poor man that hath understanding searcheth e him out.

(e) And judge that he is not wise.

Verse 12

When righteous [men] rejoice, [there is] great glory: but when the wicked rise, a man f is hidden.

(f) He is known by his doings to be wicked.

Verse 14

Happy [is] the man that g feareth always: but he that hardeneth his heart shall fall into mischief.

(g) Which stands in awe of God, and is afraid to offend him.

Verse 15

[As] a roaring lion, and a ranging bear; [so is] h a wicked ruler over the poor people.

(h) For he can never be satisfied but always oppresses and spoils.

Verse 17

A man that doeth violence to the blood of [any] person shall flee to the pit; let no man i sustain him.

(i) No one will be able to deliver him.

Verse 21

To have respect of persons [is] not good: for for a piece of k bread [that] man will transgress.

(k) He will be abused for nothing.

Verse 22

He that hasteneth to be rich [hath] an evil l eye, and considereth not that poverty shall come upon him.

(l) Meaning, he that is covetous.

Verse 25

He that is of a proud heart stirreth up strife: but he that putteth his trust in the LORD shall be made m fat.

(m) Will have all things in abundance.