Charles Ellicott Commentary Proverbs 28:15

"[As] a roaring lion, and a ranging bear, [So is] a wicked ruler over a poor people." — Proverbs 28:15 (ASV)

A ranging bear — i.e., wandering hungrily in great need of food.

Over the poor people —i.e., a people too weak to resist him, over whom he can tyrannize without fear.