John Gill Commentary Proverbs 29:16

"When the wicked are increased, transgression increaseth; But the righteous shall look upon their fall." — Proverbs 29:16 (ASV)

When the wicked are multiplied
Or "are in authority" {r}; as the word is rendered, (Proverbs 29:2) ; transgression increases ;
among the common people, being encouraged by their wicked rulers, whose examples they follow; or as the wicked themselves increase, in numbers, in age, in power, and riches, their sins increase too; but the righteous will see their fall ,
from their places of authority and power, of honour, riches, and grandeur, into a low and despicable condition, into ruin and destruction; and that with pleasure, because of the glory of God, his wisdom, justice, truth, and faithfulness, displayed therein; see (Psalms 58:10) .

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FOOTNOTES:

• F18: (twbrb) "dominantibus impiis"; some in Mercerus; "quum praesunt impii", Tigurine version.