Proverbs 14:28

Afrikaans 1983

'n Koning met baie onderdane is hoog in aansien; een met min onderdane gaan te gronde.

What Does This Mean?

This verse from Proverbs tells us that a king's glory comes from having many people under his rule, while a prince's downfall can come from a lack of people. It emphasizes the importance of a strong and populous kingdom for a ruler's success.

Explained for Children

Imagine a playground with lots of kids playing together. The playground is like a kingdom, and the principal is like a king. With many kids, the playground is fun and the principal is happy. But if the playground is empty, the principal might feel sad and worried.

Historical Background

Proverbs was written by King Solomon and other wise men over many years, approximately 1000 BC. It was written to provide wisdom and guidance to the people of Israel, emphasizing the importance of wisdom, righteousness, and the fear of God in daily life.

Living It Out Today

In modern times, consider a company with a large number of employees. The CEO (like a king) benefits from the collective efforts and talents of the team, leading to success. Conversely, a small company with few employees might struggle to grow and thrive.

Topics

• wisdom
• leadership
• population
• prosperity
• rulership
• community

Related Verses

• Ecclesiastes 4:9
• 1 Samuel 18:16
• 2 Chronicles 7:8
• Exodus 1:7
• Luke 19:12

Frequently Asked Questions

How does a ruler benefit from a large population?

A large population can provide more resources, talents, and support, leading to the prosperity and honor of a ruler.

What does the verse suggest about the relationship between a ruler and his people?

It suggests that a ruler's success is closely tied to the well-being and number of his people, highlighting the importance of mutual prosperity.

How can this verse be applied to modern businesses?

Businesses can apply this by understanding that growth and success often depend on a strong team and a large customer base.

What does 'destruction of the prince' mean in this context?

It means that without a sufficient number of people, a ruler might face decline or failure, as their power and influence are weakened.