Proverbs 17:23

A wicked man taketh a gift out of the bosom to pervert the ways of judgment.

Proverbs 17:23 (KJV)

Context

This verse is a wisdom saying from the book of Proverbs, a collection of teachings traditionally attributed to Solomon. It addresses the corrupting influence of bribery on justice. In ancient Israel, judges and leaders were expected to judge fairly, but a gift or bribe could secretly influence their decisions. The phrase “taketh a gift out of the bosom” pictures a bribe hidden in the fold of a garment, passed secretly to avoid detection.

Meaning

The verse describes a wicked person who accepts a concealed gift with the clear purpose to “pervert the ways of judgment.” The act is not a simple exchange; it is a deliberate corruption of justice. The wicked person uses the gift to distort what is fair and right, turning judgment away from truth. Both the giver and the receiver share in this wrongdoing, because the gift is meant to bend justice for personal gain.

Biblical connections

Proverbs repeatedly warns against bribery and injustice. For example, Proverbs 17:15 condemns those who justify the wicked and condemn the righteous, which is the same perversion of judgment described here. The law also forbids this practice: Exodus 23:8 commands judges not to take gifts because a gift blinds the wise and perverts the words of the righteous. These passages together show that God hates bribery and demands impartial justice.

Application

This verse calls believers to examine their own hearts and actions. It is not only about courts and judges; it applies to any situation where a person has power over others. Accepting a favor, a gift, or a payment to overlook wrongdoing or to show partiality is a form of this same corruption. Believers are urged to act with integrity, honesty, and fairness in all dealings, whether in the workplace, in the church, or in personal relationships. The warning is to avoid any secret agreement that compromises truth or justice.

Reflection

True wisdom, according to Proverbs, is marked by righteousness and equity. The fear of the Lord leads to honest and impartial judgment. This verse challenges each person to ask: Do I value fairness more than personal gain? Am I willing to refuse a gift that would tempt me to act unjustly? The call is to be a person of integrity, who cannot be bought, and who upholds what is right even when no one is watching.