7:3 That they may do evil with both hands earnestly, the prince asketh, and the judge [asketh] for a reward; and the {c} great [man], he uttereth his mischievous desire: so {d} they wrap it up.
(c) That is, the rich man that is able to give money, abstains from no wickedness or injury.
(d) These men agree among themselves, and conspire with one another to do evil.
7:3 Both hands - With all diligence. The great man - The great man at court, who can do what he will there. Uttereth - Is bold to speak plainly. Desire - His unjust, oppressive design. They - They all jointly promote violence and cruelty.
7:1-7 The prophet bemoans himself that he lived among a people ripening apace for ruin, in which many good persons would suffer. Men had no comfort, no satisfaction in their own families or in their nearest relations. Contempt and violation of domestic duties are a sad symptom of universal corruption. Those are never likely to come to good who are undutiful to their parents. The prophet saw no safety or comfort but in looking to the Lord, and waiting on God his salvation. When under trials, we should look continually to our Divine Redeemer, that we may have strength and grace to trust in him, and to be examples to those around us.
