Attribute or Action

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

Yeah, we have another one of those chicken or the egg scenarios.  Which comes first, being an oppressor or lacking understanding?

People are very quick to attack free enterprise and capitalism because they see the disparities of wealth.  My belief is that many of the early capitalist, the ones often called robber barons, were very much aware of the difference between building wealth and oppressing the poor.  Some point out the attitude or philosophy of zero sum economics as opposed to the ability to generate wealth.

The one who has understanding, the one who has wealth, the one who has power understands that it will be better for everyone, not just himself, if he is not an oppressor.  Henry Ford understood that if his workers could not afford to buy his car, then he would not sell very many cars.

So?  As you pursue life, pursue wisdom.  Pursue understanding.  And of course, that starts with the values and balance shown in the scripture.