Proverbs 20:26 Meaning and Explanation
“A wise king scattereth the wicked, and bringeth the wheel over them.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →A wise ruler disperses the wicked and crushes them with overwhelming force.
The Context of Proverbs 20:26
Proverbs idealizes rulership that actively opposes and removes wickedness from the realm.
What Does Proverbs 20:26 Mean?
A wise king uses his authority to scatter—to disperse and disband—the wicked who gather under him. Rather than allowing wickedness to organize and take root in his kingdom, he breaks it apart. The king's wisdom shows itself in recognizing evil and acting decisively to prevent it from consolidating power.
Bringing the wheel over them suggests an image of crushing force—the wheel of a cart or chariot rolling over those who oppose the righteous order. This is thorough and forceful: not a mere admonishment but a complete removal of the wicked from power and influence. The proverb endorses such forceful response as consistent with wise rule.
Proverbs 20:26 in the Original Language
'Wheel' (אוֹפָן, ophan) — a wheel; here, likely the wheel of a cart or chariot used as an image of crushing force.
Frequently Asked Questions About Proverbs 20:26
What does Proverbs 20:26 mean?
A wise ruler disperses the wicked and crushes them with overwhelming force.
What is the context of Proverbs 20:26?
Proverbs idealizes rulership that actively opposes and removes wickedness from the realm.