16:15 In the light of the king’s face 1 there is life,
and his favor is like the clouds 2 of the spring rain. 3
19:12 A king’s wrath is like 4 the roar of a lion, 5
but his favor is like dew on the grass. 6
1 tn Heb “the light of the face of the king.” This expression is a way of describing the king’s brightened face, his delight in what is taking place. This would mean life for those around him.
sn The proverb is the antithesis of 16:14.
2 tn Heb “cloud.”
3 tn Heb “latter rain” (so KJV, ASV). The favor that this expression represents is now compared to the cloud of rain that comes with the “latter” rain or harvest rain. The point is that the rain cloud was necessary for the successful harvest; likewise the king’s pleasure will ensure the success and the productivity of the people under him. E.g., also Psalm 72:15-17; the prosperity of the land is portrayed as a blessing on account of the ideal king.
4 sn The verse contrasts the “rage” of the king with his “favor” by using two similes. The first simile presents the king at his most dangerous – his anger (e.g., 20:2; Amos 3:4). The second simile presents his favor as beneficial for life (e.g., 16:14-15; 28:15).
5 tn Heb “is a roaring like a lion.”
6 sn The proverb makes an observation about a king’s power to terrify or to refresh. It advises people to use tact with a king.