Exodus 23:7-8
Keep far from a false charge, and do not kill the innocent and righteous, for I will not acquit the wicked. And you shall take no bribe, for a bribe blinds the clear-sighted and subverts the cause of those who are in the right.
English Standard Version (ESV)
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This verse isn't just about avoiding lies; it's a profound warning that when you participate in or even stand near a "false matter"—an unjust accusation or cause—you are essentially participating in the potential death of the innocent. God declares He will not acquit the wicked, meaning He will hold accountable those who condemn the righteous, not just the direct perpetrators but anyone complicit in the injustice.
This verse is embedded within a series of instructions from God to the Israelites concerning justice and how they should conduct themselves in legal matters. Immediately before, God warns against spreading false rumors and being an unrighteous witness, emphasizing impartiality even towards the poor. This passage is part of a larger section that outlines ethical and judicial principles for the newly formed nation, setting a standard for how they should interact with one another and uphold righteousness before God.
Imagine being on a jury or in a meeting where a decision could ruin someone's life. This verse gives a stark warning about what to avoid.
The phrase 'false matter' (or 'false thing' in some translations) isn't just about outright lies. It's a call to actively distance yourself from any situation that relies on deception or injustice.
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The end of the verse delivers a powerful punchline that underpins the entire command. It's not just a rule; it's a theological certainty.
The final clause, 'for I will not acquit the wicked,' is the ultimate anchor for this command. It reveals God's character and His commitment to justice.
Understand the original words
shav · Hebrew Noun
A false report, lie, or slanderous accusation. It is strictly forbidden as it violates the ninth commandment and destroys the integrity of truth.
naqi · Hebrew Adjective
One who is blameless, having committed no crime or wrongdoing. To kill such a person is a heinous violation of God's mandate for the sanctity of life.
tsaddiq · Hebrew Adjective
One who is morally upright, acting in accordance with God’s standard of behavior. They are characterized by faithfulness to the covenant and integrity before God and man.
tsadaq · Hebrew Verb
To declare not guilty, pardon, or hold guiltless. In a legal sense, it implies a judicial verdict of exoneration.
rasha · Hebrew Adjective
One who is morally guilty, acting in opposition to God's will. It describes a person characterized by evil deeds and a rebellious heart.
shohad · Hebrew Noun
A gift or payment given to influence a person to act dishonestly or to sway judgment in one's favor. It is condemned because it corrupts judgment and blinds the eyes to the truth.
This passage directly echoes the prohibition against harming the innocent, stating 'Cursed be anyone who takes a bribe to strike down an innocent person.' It reinforces the severe consequences of perverting justice, aligning with Exodus 23:7's warning against false charges and killing the righteous.
Psalm 94:4-7This psalm laments the wicked who 'utter arrogant words' and 'bring disaster upon the innocent,' reflecting the same theme of injustice and the suffering of the righteous that Exodus 23:7 seeks to prevent. It highlights the mindset of those who disregard God's law and oppress others.
Proverbs 17:15This proverb directly parallels Exodus 23:7 by stating, 'To accept a guilty person is an abomination, as is to acquit a guilty one.' It underscores the divine principle that justice must be upheld, and the wicked should not be declared righteous.
Matthew 7:1-2Jesus' teaching here about not judging others lest we be judged ourselves, and the measure we use being used against us, resonates with the divine warning in Exodus 23:7. It speaks to the accountability of our judgments and the danger of condemning the innocent.
James 5:9James warns against grumbling against one another, 'so that you may not be condemned,' directly echoing the theme of accountability for unjust accusations and judgments found in Exodus 23:7. It calls believers to righteousness and fairness in their dealings with each other.
bensonExodus 23:7: "Keep thee far from a false matter; and the innocent and righteous slay thou not: for I will not justify the wicked."
Exodus 23:7 . Keep thee far from a false matter — From assisting or abetting all ill thing. Yea, keep thee far from it, dread it as a dangerous snare. I will not just i fy the wicked — That is, I will condemn him that unjustly condemns others.
pulpitExodus 23:7: "Keep thee far from a false matter; and the innocent and righteous slay thou not: for I will not justify the wicked."
Verse 7. - Keep thee far from a false matter. Hold aloof, i.e., from anything like a false accusation. Neither bring one, nor countenance one, else those mayest cause the death of an innocent and righteous man, and bring down on thyself the vengeance of him, who will not justify the wicked.
This verse isn't just about avoiding lies; it's a profound warning that when you participate in or even stand near a "false matter"—an unjust accusation or cause—you are essentially participating in the potential death of the innocent. God declares He will not acquit the wicked, meaning He will hold accountable those who condemn the righteous, not just the direct perpetrators but anyone complicit in the injustice.
This verse is embedded within a series of instructions from God to the Israelites concerning justice and how they should conduct themselves in legal matters. Immediately before, God warns against spreading false rumors and being an unrighteous witness, emphasizing impartiality even towards the poor. This passage is part of a larger section that outlines ethical and judicial principles for the newly formed nation, setting a standard for how they should interact with one another and uphold righteousness before God.
This verse is embedded within a series of instructions from God to the Israelites concerning justice and how they should conduct themselves in legal matters. Immediately before, God warns against spreading false rumors and being an unrighteous witness, emphasizing impartiality even towards the poor. This passage is part of a larger section that outlines ethical and judicial principles for the newly formed nation, setting a standard for how they should interact with one another and uphold righteousness before God.
"Keep far from a false charge, and do not kill the innocent and righteous, for I will not acquit the wicked. And you shall take no bribe, for a bribe blinds the clear-sighted and subverts the cause of those who are in the right." — This verse isn't just about avoiding lies; it's a profound warning that when you participate in or even stand near a "false matter"—an unjust accusation or cause—you are essentially participating in…
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