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4. Establisheth. Nothing breaks down security like injustice. If a man is likely to suffer innocently at the hands of his rulers, he may be tempted to decide that uprightness does not pay, and he may turn to evil ways himself. Even those who refuse to be so corrupted by the example of their governors are hindered from doing their best.

Gifts. Heb. terumoth, elsewhere referring to ritual contributions or offerings, here probably to the contributions exacted by a ruler. The phrase “he that receiveth gifts,” literally, “a man of offerings,” has been variously interpreted. It is not certain whether Solomon meant a man who gives, or a man who takes, bribes; or whether he meant a ruler who demanded sacrifices like a god.