Proverbs 24:23-25
These also are sayings of the wise. Partiality in judging is not good. Whoever says to the wicked, “You are in the right,” will be cursed by peoples, abhorred by nations, but those who rebuke the wicked will have delight, and a good blessing will come upon them.
English Standard Version (ESV)
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The phrase "partiality in judging is not good" is a significant understatement; the original Hebrew literally means "to discern faces." This isn't just about not favoring the rich or poor, but a deeper, more insidious practice of prejudging people based on their outward appearance or social standing. It highlights that true wisdom demands seeing past superficialities to the heart of a matter and the truth of a person, unclouded by bias.
This verse marks the beginning of a new section, introducing further sayings attributed to wise individuals. It immediately dives into a crucial principle for justice and integrity: judges must avoid showing favoritism or bias based on who people are, rather than the merits of their cases.
Ever wonder who's speaking in Proverbs? This verse gives us a clue, but it's not as simple as it sounds. It's about who the wisdom is for.
Where Does This Wisdom Come From?
Verse 23 starts by saying, 'These also are sayings of the wise.' This phrase, especially in the original Hebrew, is similar to how many Psalms are attributed to their authors. It suggests that these specific proverbs might be a collection from various wise individuals, possibly gathered after Solomon.
Who Is This Wisdom For?
But more importantly, 'belong to the wise' tells us who this wisdom is intended for. It's not just abstract knowledge; it's practical guidance for those who want to live wisely. The insights that follow are especially relevant for judges, rulers, and anyone in a position of authority, challenging them to live according to God's standards.
We all have biases, whether we admit it or not. But when it comes to judgment, even subtle favoritism can be disastrous.
What Does 'Respect of Persons' Mean?
The core of this verse is the strong declaration: 'Partiality in judging is not good.' In the original language, this phrase 'respect of persons' literally means 'to discern faces' or 'to lift up faces.' It paints a picture of judges looking at who a person is – their status, wealth, or connections – rather than what the situation actually calls for.
Why Is It So Bad?
This kind of partiality perverts justice. It means treating people differently based on who they are, not on the merits of their case or actions. The commentary notes it's a 'meiosis,' an understatement, meaning it's not just 'not good,' it's deeply evil and sinful. When judgment is based on faces, truth is abandoned, and society suffers.
Understand the original words
hakker panim · Hebrew Noun phrase
Showing favor or bias toward one party over another, particularly in a legal or moral context, which undermines justice and equity.
rasha' · Hebrew Adjective/Noun
An individual who lives in defiance of God's law. In wisdom literature, it denotes someone who lacks divine wisdom and pursues paths that lead away from righteousness.
arar · Hebrew Verb
To be declared under divine condemnation or sentence of judgment. It is the opposite of being blessed and signifies being cut off from divine favor.
yakach · Hebrew Verb
To express strong disapproval or correction of someone's sinful behavior. It is a necessary act in biblical community to call others to repentance and righteous living.
This passage directly echoes the command found in Proverbs, stating, 'You shall not show partiality in judgment; you shall not be partial to the poor or defer to the great, but in righteousness shall you judge your neighbor.' It highlights the consistent principle of impartiality required in God's law.
Deuteronomy 1:17This verse provides the reasoning behind impartiality in judgment, explaining that judges should not be swayed by status or fear because 'the judgment belongs to God.' This reinforces the idea that God's justice is the standard, not human favor.
James 2:1-4The New Testament letter of James directly addresses favoritism within the community of believers, condemning showing special preference to the wealthy. This shows that the principle of impartial judgment is a core tenet that extends beyond the legal system to how believers treat one another.
Matthew 7:1-2Jesus' teaching on judgment warns against condemning others, stating, 'with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to you.' This passage broadens the concept of judgment to include our personal evaluations of others, emphasizing the need for fairness and humility in all our assessments.
pooleProverbs 24:23: "These things also belong to the wise. It is not good to have respect of persons in judgment."
These things also, these proverbs or counsels here following to the end of the chapter, no less than those hitherto mentioned, belong to the wise; are worthy of the consideration, and fit for the use, of them who are or would be wise; for only such are capable of understanding and improving these proverbs, as was noted, Proverbs 1:5-7 , and elsewhere. To have respect of persons in judg…
jfbProverbs 24:23: "These things also belong to the wise. It is not good to have respect of persons in judgment."
- These … wise—literally, "are of the wise," as authors (compare "Psalms of David," Hebrew). "These" refers to the verses following, Pr 24:24-34.to have respect—literally, "to discern faces," show partiality,
The phrase "partiality in judging is not good" is a significant understatement; the original Hebrew literally means "to discern faces." This isn't just about not favoring the rich or poor, but a deeper, more insidious practice of prejudging people based on their outward appearance or social standing. It highlights that true wisdom demands seeing past superficialities to the heart of a matter and the truth of a person, unclouded by bias.
This verse marks the beginning of a new section, introducing further sayings attributed to wise individuals. It immediately dives into a crucial principle for justice and integrity: judges must avoid showing favoritism or bias based on who people are, rather than the merits of their cases.
This verse marks the beginning of a new section, introducing further sayings attributed to wise individuals. It immediately dives into a crucial principle for justice and integrity: judges must avoid showing favoritism or bias based on who people are, rather than the merits of their cases.
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berakah · Hebrew Noun
The favor, prosperity, and spiritual well-being that God bestows upon those who follow His ways. It is the antithesis of a curse.
"These also are sayings of the wise.
Partiality in judging is not good. Whoever says to the wicked, “You are in the right,”
will be cursed by peoples, abhorred by nations, but those who rebuke the wicked will have delight,…" — The phrase "partiality in judging is not good" is a significant understatement; the original Hebrew literally means "to discern faces." This isn't just about not favoring the rich or poor, but a deep…