Proverbs 14:28 (BSB)

A large population is a king’s splendor, but a lack of subjects is a prince’s ruin.

From Proverbs 14. Also in the ESV.

Commentary on Proverbs 14:28

• Matthew Henry (Presbyterian), Matthew Henry's Complete Commentary on Proverbs 14:28: Here are two maxims in politics, which carry their own evidence with them: - 1. That it is much for the honour of a king to have a populous kingdom; it is a sign that he rules well, since strangers are hereby invited to come and settle under his protection and his own subjects live comfortably; it is a sign that he and his kingdom...
• John Gill (Reformed Baptist), Exposition of the Old and New Testaments on Proverbs 14:28: In the multitude of people is the king's honour,.... For it is a sign of a good and wise government, of clemency and righteousness being exercised, of liberty and property being enjoyed, of peace, plenty, and prosperity; which encourage subjects to serve their king cheerfully, and to continue under his reign and government peaceably; and which invites others from different parts to come and settle...
• Jamieson-Fausset-Brown (Reformed), Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible on Proverbs 14:28: The teaching of a true political economy.
• Geneva Bible Notes (Reformed), Geneva Bible Study Notes on Proverbs 14:28: In the multitude of people [is] the king's honour: but in the lack of people [is] the destruction of the prince. (l) That is, the strength of a king stands in many people.