Proverbs 29:16

When the wicked increase, ¹  transgression increases, but the righteous will see ²  their downfall.

Ps 37:34,36; Ps 58:10; Ps 91:8; Ps 92:9,11; Ps 112:8; Pr 29:2; Re 15:4; Re 18:20

¹ tn The verb רָבָה (ravah), which is repeated twice in this line, means “to increase.” The first occurrence here is usually taken to mean that when the wicked increase they hold the power (cf. NRSV, NLT “are in authority”; TEV, CEV “are in power”). The text does not explain the details, only that when the wicked increase sin will increase in the land.

² sn The Hebrew verb translated “see” in this context indicates a triumph: The righteous will gaze with satisfaction, or they will look on the downfall of the wicked triumphantly (e.g., Pss 37:4 and 112:8). The verse is teaching that no matter how widespread evil may be, the righteous will someday see its destruction.