Princely Leaders

(Pro 28:16 KJV) The prince that wanteth understanding is also a great oppressor: but he that hateth covetousness shall prolong his days.

If you have both translations you will see that the NASB uses “leader” (5057) while the KJV says “prince”.  Part of this reflects the cultural background but there are points to be made for both.  The Hebrew word has the idea of one who stands above the crowd.  In the days of Solomon people were big believers in class and blood lines.  There was a belief that some people were better than others, just by birth.  For that reason a leader would most likely be a member of the nobility.  You see this in many countries where officers in the military must be from the upper crust.  The NCO’s may run the army but they still have to salute the officers.

The Bible acknowledges kings and nobles but you will notice that many of the leaders were more common people.  David may have come from a wealthy family but he was the youngest son and thought of as a shepherd.

Leaders come in all flavors.  This verse makes it clear that some of them are missing the mark.

So?  If you are ever tasked with leadership, and most of us will at some time, make sure that you look at it as a place of service, not a place to oppress.