Proverbs 18:16
A man's gift maketh room for him, and bringeth him before great men.
Original Language Analysis
Cross References
Historical Context
Ancient Near Eastern protocol required bringing gifts when approaching royalty or seeking favor. This wasn't bribery but culturally expected honor. The Queen of Sheba brought lavish gifts to Solomon (1 Kings 10:2). Tribute payments between nations functioned similarly—acknowledging authority and seeking peaceful relations. However, the law explicitly forbade bribes in judicial contexts: 'Thou shalt not wrest judgment; thou shalt not respect persons, neither take a gift: for a gift doth blind the eyes of the wise' (Deuteronomy 16:19). The prophets condemned corrupt officials who took bribes (Isaiah 1:23; Micah 7:3). Early Christian communities emphasized generous giving without expectation of return (Acts 20:35; Luke 6:35), transforming gift-giving from a tool for social climbing to an expression of Christian love.
Questions for Reflection
- How can you practice biblical generosity without falling into manipulation or corruption?
- When have you seen gifts used appropriately to honor others versus inappropriately to obligate or manipulate?
- How does Christ's gift of Himself on your behalf change your approach to giving and receiving?
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Analysis & Commentary
The Hebrew word 'gift' (מַתָּן/matan) can denote both legitimate presents and bribes—context determines which. Here the verse describes neutral observation: gifts open doors and provide access to influential people. This reflects the ancient practice of bringing gifts when approaching rulers (1 Kings 10:2, 25). However, Proverbs elsewhere condemns bribes that pervert justice (17:8, 23). The tension requires discernment. Appropriate giving—expressing honor, gratitude, or genuine generosity—is biblical. Abraham gave gifts to Sarah's relatives (Genesis 24:53); Jacob sent gifts to appease Esau (Genesis 32:13-21). Paul taught generous giving (2 Corinthians 9:7). Yet giving that manipulates, obligates, or corrupts is sinful. The wise person discerns the difference. Ultimately, this proverb points beyond earthly gifts to the supreme Gift—Christ Himself, who 'maketh room' for believers before God the Father. 'God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us' (Romans 5:8).