Leviticus 19:15

Ye shall do no unrighteousness in judgment: thou shalt not respect the person of the poor, nor honour the person of the mighty: but in righteousness shalt thou judge thy neighbour.

Leviticus 19:15 (KJV)

Context

Leviticus is part of the Torah, the first five books of the Bible, and it contains laws God gave to Israel. Leviticus 19 belongs to the Holiness Code, a collection of commands that set Israel apart as God’s people. The chapter opens with the call, “Ye shall be holy: for I the LORD your God am holy” (Leviticus 19:2). This verse applies that call to the way people judge one another. The command is given to judges and witnesses in legal proceedings, but its principle reaches into every relationship.

Meaning

The command forbids unrighteousness in judgment. It names two dangers: showing favor to the poor and honoring the mighty. Both are partiality, and both corrupt justice. The judge or witness must decide based on the facts and God’s standards, not on a person’s wealth or poverty. The verse also extends beyond courts to all relationships, calling for fairness in everyday dealings. To judge “in righteousness” means to weigh each case on its own merits, without letting pity or fear bend the outcome.

Biblical connections

This principle echoes throughout Scripture. Romans 2:11 says, “For there is no respect of persons with God.” James 2:1-9 warns against favoring the rich and reminds believers of the royal law to love one’s neighbor as oneself. Jesus taught the same in Matthew 7:12, telling His followers to treat others as they would be treated. These passages confirm that impartial judgment is a lasting divine requirement. God Himself shows no partiality, and His people are called to reflect that character.

Application

This verse challenges us to examine our own judgments and biases. We may favor the poor out of pity or the mighty out of fear, but both are unrighteous. In our families, workplaces, and churches, we are called to treat everyone fairly. We must also be honest in our words about others, refusing to twist truth for personal gain. Consider how you speak about people who are different from you. Do you give more weight to the opinions of the wealthy or the influential? Do you overlook the faults of those you admire? God calls us to a higher standard.

Reflection

Consider your own life. Are there people you treat differently because of their status? Ask God to reveal hidden favoritism and to help you see others through His eyes. As we practice impartiality, we reflect God’s character and contribute to a more just community. Let us commit to judging our neighbors in righteousness, as the Lord commands.