Proverbs 11:1
A false balance is abomination to the LORD: but a just weight is his delight.
Original Language Analysis
תּוֹעֲבַ֣ת
is abomination
H8441
תּוֹעֲבַ֣ת
is abomination
Strong's:
H8441
Word #:
3 of 7
properly, something disgusting (morally), i.e., (as noun) an abhorrence; especially idolatry or (concretely) an idol
יְהוָ֑ה
to the LORD
H3068
יְהוָ֑ה
to the LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
4 of 7
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
Cross References
Proverbs 20:23Divers weights are an abomination unto the LORD; and a false balance is not good.Proverbs 16:11A just weight and balance are the LORD'S: all the weights of the bag are his work.Proverbs 20:10Divers weights, and divers measures, both of them are alike abomination to the LORD.Hosea 12:7He is a merchant, the balances of deceit are in his hand: he loveth to oppress.
Historical Context
Ancient markets lacked standardized weights, making fraud easy and common. Mosaic Law explicitly prohibited false measures (Leviticus 19:35-36, Deuteronomy 25:13-16), reinforcing that economic justice was central to covenant faithfulness.
Questions for Reflection
- What modern equivalents to 'false balances' exist in business, relationships, or daily life?
- How does viewing dishonesty as an 'abomination' to God change your perspective on seemingly small compromises?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
False weights and balances were common tools of commercial fraud in the ancient world, and God's abomination of them reveals His character of absolute justice. The Hebrew 'toebah' (abomination) is strong language, used elsewhere for idolatry and sexual immorality, showing that dishonest business practices are moral abominations, not merely ethical lapses. God's delight in 'just weight' (Hebrew 'shalem'—complete, perfect) demonstrates that integrity in daily transactions reflects His own righteous nature.