Exodus 23:6
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Exodus 23:6
6 Thou shalt not wrest the judgment of thy poor in his cause.
Chapter Context
Exodus 23 is a narrative with legal sections chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of worship, discipleship, truth. Written during the Egyptian bondage and wilderness wandering (c. 1446-1406 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Egypt was the dominant superpower with a complex polytheistic religion and a god-king pharaoh.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-33: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it demonstrates God's faithfulness despite human unfaithfulness. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Exodus and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Exodus 23:6
6 Thou shalt not wrest the judgment of thy poor in his cause.
Analysis
Thou shalt not wrest the judgment of thy poor in his cause.
'Wrest judgment' (לֹא תַטֶּה מִשְׁפַּט, lo tatteh mishpat) means 'don't pervert justice.' The rich often oppress the poor through legal manipulation—expensive lawyers, bribes, intimidation. This command protects 'thy poor' (אֶבְיֹנְךָ, evyonkha)—'your poor,' covenant brother. Courts must not favor rich over poor (nor poor over rich, Leviticus 19:15). Impartial justice regardless of economic status is rare historically and presently. Prophets repeatedly condemn justice-perversion (Isaiah 10:1-2, Amos 5:12). James warns against favoritism toward the wealthy (James 2:1-9). God champions the poor; His people must ensure they receive just treatment.
Historical Context
Ancient courts often favored wealthy litigants who could afford bribes or influence. God's law demanded impartial justice regardless of economic status—revolutionary in the ancient world and still challenging today.
Reflection
- How do modern legal systems sometimes 'pervert the judgment of the poor'?
- What practical steps can Christians take to ensure the vulnerable receive justice in society?
Word Studies
- Judgment: מִשְׁפָּט (Mishpat) H4941 - Judgment, justice
Cross-References
- Judgment: Leviticus 19:15, Deuteronomy 16:19, 27:19, Ecclesiastes 5:8, Jeremiah 5:28, Malachi 3:5