Proverbs 21:3
To do justice and judgment is more acceptable to the LORD than sacrifice.
Original Language Analysis
עֲ֭שֹׂה
To do
H6213
עֲ֭שֹׂה
To do
Strong's:
H6213
Word #:
1 of 6
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
צְדָקָ֣ה
justice
H6666
צְדָקָ֣ה
justice
Strong's:
H6666
Word #:
2 of 6
rightness (abstractly), subjectively (rectitude), objectively (justice), morally (virtue) or figuratively (prosperity)
וּמִשְׁפָּ֑ט
and judgment
H4941
וּמִשְׁפָּ֑ט
and judgment
Strong's:
H4941
Word #:
3 of 6
properly, a verdict (favorable or unfavorable) pronounced judicially, especially a sentence or formal decree (human or (participant's) divine law, ind
נִבְחָ֖ר
is more acceptable
H977
נִבְחָ֖ר
is more acceptable
Strong's:
H977
Word #:
4 of 6
properly, to try, i.e., (by implication) select
Cross References
1 Samuel 15:22And Samuel said, Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.Hosea 6:6For I desired mercy, and not sacrifice; and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings.Proverbs 15:8The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to the LORD: but the prayer of the upright is his delight.Mark 12:33And to love him with all the heart, and with all the understanding, and with all the soul, and with all the strength, and to love his neighbour as himself, is more than all whole burnt offerings and sacrifices.Psalms 50:8I will not reprove thee for thy sacrifices or thy burnt offerings, to have been continually before me.
Historical Context
Israel's tendency toward ritualism without righteousness drew consistent prophetic rebuke. The sacrificial system was meant to lead to holiness, not substitute for it.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you prioritize ethical living over mere religious activities?
- What sacrifices or spiritual practices might substitute for genuine obedience in your life?
Analysis & Commentary
Justice and judgment (ethical living) please God more than sacrifice (ritual observance). This prophetic theme (1 Samuel 15:22, Micah 6:6-8) shows God values obedience over religious performance. Reformed theology emphasizes that true worship flows from transformed hearts, not mere external conformity.