Above is the 1611 English translation in the KJV. I was raised on that English translation but now more often use the ESV, which translates it, “When the righteous increase, the people rejoice, but when the wicked rule, the people groan” (Pr 29:2).

The meaning is straightforward. It’s an example of antithetical parallelism in poetry. The second half of the phrase contrasts with the first. Why? For emphasis. Contrast is perhaps the best way to teach.

Part I: Righteous rulers = joyful people

Part II: Wicked/corrupt rulers = bitter, angry, debased people

For the first time in four years, gas prices in my area dropped 30 cents in just a week. We in the military were told via official chains that the DEI stuff is now gone. No more hiring and firing, promoting and demoting, based upon skin pigmentation and gender. And suddenly we can say that there are indeed still two genders. A sea change is afoot.

I lived in western NC for almost 10 years when I was young. Today, America’s president visited and is at work to bring relief. I almost wept when I saw the pictures of devastation that still characterizes towns there I know like the back of my hand.

Again I return to Proverbs 29:2: “When the righteous increase, the people rejoice, but when the wicked rule, the people groan.”

I am praying for my Commander in Chief, and I’m doing so in a way I’ve never done in all the years I have voted and/or prayed for my presidents.

I saw the looks in the eyes of those who watched you as you, Mr. President, launched plans to rebuild western NC and take care of our nation’s citizens. And I am praying for righteousness, sir–from the ground up and from the top down. Proverbs 29:2; yes, Proverbs 29:2.