In Proverbs “kings” are usually mentioned in a religious or ethical context. This saying has no such connection but states the obvious fact that a ruler is important if he has many subjects in his kingdom. For the opposite view, however, see Psa 33.16.

“In a multitude of people is the glory of a king”: “A multitude of people” means that the “king” rules over many subjects. “The glory of a king” refers to the honor, prestige, and splendor that the king enjoys. According to this saying a large population enables the king to have “glory”, that is, honor or material splendor. With many people to choose from, for example, he is able to organize a large army.

“But without people a prince is ruined”: This line contrasts with the first. “People” here refers, as in line 1, to subjects, those the king or prince rules over. “A prince” may refer to the king’s son who will inherit his rule, but more likely it is used as an equivalent and matching term for “king”. “Ruined” refers to the ruler being helpless or without power or, as Good News Translation says, “he is nothing.” Bible en français courant offers a model translation: “A large population gives a king splendor. If he lacks subjects, his power comes to an end.”

Quoted with permission from Reyburn, William D. and Fry, Euan McG. A Handbook on Proverbs. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 2000. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .