Albert Barnes Commentary Proverbs 14:28

"In the multitude of people is the king`s glory; But in the want of people is the destruction of the prince." — Proverbs 14:28 (ASV)

A protest against the false ideal of national greatness to which Eastern kings, for the most part, have bowed down. Not conquest, or pomp, or gorgeous array, but a happy and numerous people form the true glory of a king. The word translated “prince” is of doubtful meaning; but the translation is supported by the Septuagint, Vulgate, and most commentators.