Proverbs 20:23
Divers weights are an abomination unto the LORD; and a false balance is not good.
Original Language Analysis
תּוֹעֲבַ֣ת
are an abomination
H8441
תּוֹעֲבַ֣ת
are an abomination
Strong's:
H8441
Word #:
1 of 8
properly, something disgusting (morally), i.e., (as noun) an abhorrence; especially idolatry or (concretely) an idol
יְ֭הוָה
unto the LORD
H3068
יְ֭הוָה
unto the LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
2 of 8
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
Cross References
Proverbs 20:10Divers weights, and divers measures, both of them are alike abomination to the LORD.Proverbs 11:1A false balance is abomination to the LORD: but a just weight is his delight.Ezekiel 45:10Ye shall have just balances, and a just ephah, and a just bath.Hosea 12:7He is a merchant, the balances of deceit are in his hand: he loveth to oppress.
Historical Context
Archaeological discoveries confirm widespread use of dishonest weights and measures in the ancient Near East. Israelite law explicitly commanded honest business practices (Leviticus 19:35-36; Deuteronomy 25:13-16).
Questions for Reflection
- Are your business practices characterized by complete honesty and fairness?
- In what subtle ways might you be using 'diverse weights' in your dealings with others?
Analysis & Commentary
This verse repeats the condemnation of 'diverse weights' (dishonest scales) found throughout Proverbs. Commercial fraud—whether inflating measures for sales or deflating them for purchases—is 'not good' (a deliberate understatement meaning 'abominable'). Such dishonesty violates both justice and love of neighbor. The repeated emphasis on honest weights reflects how pervasive such fraud was and how seriously God views it. Every transaction is a moral act reflecting either covenant faithfulness or selfish exploitation. Honest business dealings demonstrate love for God and neighbor, while fraud reveals heart corruption. God will judge every act of commercial dishonesty because it oppresses the poor and despises His image in others.