Proverbs 17:23
A wicked man taketh a gift out of the bosom to pervert the ways of judgment.
Original Language Analysis
לְ֝הַטּ֗וֹת
to pervert
H5186
לְ֝הַטּ֗וֹת
to pervert
Strong's:
H5186
Word #:
5 of 7
to stretch or spread out; by implication, to bend away (including moral deflection); used in a great variety of application (as follows)
Cross References
Proverbs 17:8A gift is as a precious stone in the eyes of him that hath it: whithersoever it turneth, it prospereth.Exodus 23:8And thou shalt take no gift: for the gift blindeth the wise, and perverteth the words of the righteous.Micah 7:3That they may do evil with both hands earnestly, the prince asketh, and the judge asketh for a reward; and the great man, he uttereth his mischievous desire: so they wrap it up.Deuteronomy 16:19Thou shalt not wrest judgment; thou shalt not respect persons, neither take a gift: for a gift doth blind the eyes of the wise, and pervert the words of the righteous.
Historical Context
Ancient judicial systems lacked institutional safeguards against corruption. Judges who accepted bribes enriched themselves while destroying justice. Prophets condemned this practice repeatedly (Isaiah 1:23, 5:23, Micah 3:11, 7:3). Samuel's sons took bribes, provoking Israel to demand a king (1 Samuel 8:3). Perversion of justice was among Israel's worst sins bringing exile. Modern parallel: corruption undermining rule of law destroys societies.
Questions for Reflection
- In what contexts might you be tempted to take or give 'gifts' that pervert justice or fairness?
- How can you maintain incorruptible integrity in business, employment, and all dealings?
- What does pursuing justice and loving mercy (Micah 6:8) look like in your sphere of influence?
Analysis & Commentary
A wicked man taketh a gift out of the bosom to pervert the ways of judgment. Shochad mecheq rasha yiqqach (שֹׁחַד מֵחֵק רָשָׁע יִקָּח, a bribe from the bosom the wicked takes). Bribes given secretly (from the bosom/inner garment) pervert justice. Lehatot orchot mishpat (לְהַטּוֹת אָרְחוֹת מִשְׁפָּט, to pervert paths of justice). Natah (נָטָה, turn aside, pervert, bend) describes corrupting what should be straight. God abhors bribery (Exodus 23:8, Deuteronomy 16:19). Jesus perfectly exemplified incorruptible justice. Christians must resist bribes and pursue righteousness in all dealings.