KJV ORIGINAL
When the wicked are multiplied, transgression increaseth: but the righteous shall see their fall.
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE
When evil people increase in number, wrongdoing spreads everywhere: but those who do what's right will witness their downfall.
⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE
This verse is saying that when bad people gain power and influence, sin becomes more common, but good people will eventually see justice prevail.
📚 Historical Context
This proverb was written during a time when Israel experienced cycles of righteous and wicked leadership. The wisdom literature of Proverbs reflects observations about how moral leadership affects entire communities. Ancient Israel understood that the character of those in positions of influence directly impacted the moral climate of society.
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