Proverbs 21:27
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Proverbs 21:27
27 The sacrifice of the wicked is abomination: how much more, when he bringeth it with a wicked mind?
Chapter Context
Proverbs 21 is a wisdom sayings chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of judgment, creation, holiness. Written during primarily Solomon's reign (c. 970-930 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Ancient Near Eastern wisdom literature was common in royal courts for training officials.
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 21-31: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Proverbs and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Proverbs 21:27
27 The sacrifice of the wicked is abomination: how much more, when he bringeth it with a wicked mind?
Analysis
The wicked person's worship is inherently abominable to God—not merely imperfect but detestable. The second clause intensifies this: 'how much more' when worship is offered 'with a wicked mind'—hypocritically, manipulatively, or presumptuously. God looks at the heart, not external religious performance. The unregenerate person's best works are filthy rags (Isaiah 64:6); his worship is offensive. This destroys any notion of salvation by religious observance apart from regeneration. God desires truth in the inward parts; external compliance without heart transformation is worthless. Only through Christ can sinners offer acceptable worship. This should produce both humility (recognizing our unworthiness) and gratitude (marveling that Christ makes us acceptable).
Historical Context
Israel's prophets repeatedly condemned empty ritualism divorced from justice and heart obedience (Isaiah 1:10-17, Amos 5:21-24). God desires mercy, not sacrifice.
Reflection
- Do you approach worship with a pure heart, or merely external compliance?
- How does understanding worship's acceptability only through Christ affect your approach to God?
Word Studies
- Sacrifice: זֶבַח (Zevach) H2077 - Sacrifice, offering
Cross-References
- Sacrifice: Proverbs 15:8, Isaiah 66:3, Jeremiah 6:20
- Parallel theme: Proverbs 28:9, Matthew 23:13