2 When the righteous thrive, the people rejoice; when the wicked rule, the people groan.

Other Translations of Proverbs 29:2

King James Version

2 When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice: but when the wicked beareth rule, the people mourn.

English Standard Version

2 When the righteous increase, the people rejoice, but when the wicked rule, the people groan.

The Message

2 When good people run things, everyone is glad, but when the ruler is bad, everyone groans.

New King James Version

2 When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; But when a wicked man rules, the people groan.

New Living Translation

2 When the godly are in authority, the people rejoice. But when the wicked are in power, they groan.

Matthew Henry's Commentary on Proverbs 29:2

Commentary on Proverbs 29:2

(Read Proverbs 29:2)

The people have cause to rejoice or mourn, as their rulers are righteous or wicked.