Proverbs 16:12 - Joseph Benson’s Commentary on the Old and New Testaments

It is an abomination to kings to commit wickedness They should not only abstain from all wicked practices, but abhor them, both in their own persons, and in all their servants and subjects. It is too plain that he speaks not of the common practice, but of the duty of kings, as in Proverbs 16:10. A good king not only does justice, but it is an abomination to him to do otherwise: he hates the thought of doing wrong, and perverting justice: he not only abhors the wickedness done by others, but abhors to do any himself, though, having power, he might easily and safely do it. For the throne is established by righteousness He that makes conscience of using his power aright, shall find that to be the best security of his government; both as it will oblige people, and keep them true to his interests, and as it will bring down upon him and his government the blessing of God, which will be a firm basis to his throne, and a strong guard about it.