Old Testament
Proverbs 29:16
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
When the wicked are multiplied, transgression increases, but the righteous will see their fall.
Compare translations
When the wicked are multiplied, transgression increaseth: but the righteous shall see their fall.
What Proverbs 29:16 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse highlights the relationship between the presence of wicked people and the increase of wrongdoing. When more wicked individuals are around, immoral actions and behaviors tend to rise. However, the verse offers hope to the righteous, suggesting that they will ultimately witness the downfall of the wicked. This can be understood as a reminder that justice prevails in the end, and those who live righteously will see the consequences of evil actions. The verse encourages believers to remain steadfast in their righteousness, knowing that while wickedness may seem to thrive temporarily, it will not last forever. The righteous can take comfort in the assurance that they will witness the eventual justice served against those who choose to live in sin and rebellion against God.
How to apply Proverbs 29:16 to your life
In our daily lives, we may encounter situations where wrongdoing seems prevalent. This verse encourages us to stay committed to our values and trust that justice will be served. By focusing on righteousness, we can influence our surroundings positively and remain hopeful in the face of evil.
Curated for this public verse page. Proverbs Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from David's story: Samuel Anoints David (1 Samuel 16:1–13)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
David
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Hebron
Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Proverbs 29:16
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Proverbs 29:16
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Proverbs
- Author
- Primarily Solomon, with other contributors
- Written
- Around 950-700 BC
- Genre
- Wisdom literature
- Original Audience
- Young people and all seeking wisdom
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Proverbs 29:16 mean?
Proverbs 29:16 means that as the number of wicked people increases, so does the amount of wrongdoing in society. However, it reassures that the righteous will ultimately witness the downfall of the wicked, emphasizing that justice will prevail.
What is the meaning of wickedness in Proverbs 29:16?
In Proverbs 29:16, wickedness refers to immoral actions and behaviors that go against God's standards. The verse suggests that when wicked individuals are more prevalent, their negative influence leads to increased transgression.
How does Proverbs 29:16 relate to justice?
Proverbs 29:16 relates to justice by highlighting that while wickedness may seem to flourish, it will not last. The verse assures that the righteous will witness the downfall of the wicked, reinforcing the idea that justice will ultimately be served.
What can we learn from Proverbs 29:16?
From Proverbs 29:16, we learn the importance of remaining steadfast in righteousness despite the prevalence of wickedness. It encourages us to trust that justice will come and to focus on living according to our values.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.