Proverbs 29:16 - Clarke's commentary and critical notes on the Bible

When the wicked are multiplied, transgression increaseth: but the righteous shall see their fall. When the wicked are multiplied - That, in the multiplication of the wicked transgression is increased, requires no proof; but an important doctrine attaches to this. On this account wicked nations and wicked families are cut off and rooted out. Were it not so righteousness would in process of time be banished from the earth. This will account for many of the numerous instances in which whole families fail.