Isaiah 5:23
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Isaiah 5:23
23 Which justify the wicked for reward, and take away the righteousness of the righteous from him!
Chapter Context
Isaiah 5 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of obedience, worship, love. Written during the Assyrian and pre-exilic periods (c. 740-680 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Addressed Judah during Assyria's rise, Babylon's threat, and anticipated restoration.
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 21-30: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Isaiah and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Isaiah 5:23
23 Which justify the wicked for reward, and take away the righteousness of the righteous from him!
Analysis
Judicial corruption—'justify the wicked for reward' and 'take away the righteousness of the righteous'—inverts justice, the very foundation of God's throne (Psalm 89:14). Accepting bribes to acquit the guilty while condemning the innocent violates explicit Torah prohibitions (Exodus 23:8; Deuteronomy 16:19). This perversion of justice particularly incenses God, as it directly opposes His character. The New Testament similarly condemns those who call evil good (Romans 1:32).
Historical Context
Prophetic literature consistently indicts judicial corruption (Isaiah 1:23; Micah 3:11; Amos 5:12), showing it was endemic. Leaders enriched themselves while denying justice to the vulnerable.
Reflection
- How do modern legal and social systems sometimes justify the wicked while condemning the righteous?
- What 'rewards' tempt us to compromise justice in our spheres of influence?
Word Studies
- Justify: צָדַק (Tsadaq) H6663 - To be righteous, declare righteous
Cross-References
- Righteousness: Deuteronomy 16:19, Psalms 94:21, Proverbs 17:15, 24:24, James 5:6
- Evil: Proverbs 17:23, Micah 3:11, 7:3
- Parallel theme: Isaiah 1:23, 10:2