Deuteronomy 16:19

KJV

Thou shalt not wrest judgment; thou shalt not respect persons, neither take a gift: for a gift doth blind the eyes of the wise, and pervert the words of the righteous.

KJV (with Strong's)

Thou shalt not wrest {H5186} judgment {H4941}; thou shalt not respect {H5234} persons {H6440}, neither take {H3947} a gift {H7810}: for a gift {H7810} doth blind {H5786} the eyes {H5869} of the wise {H2450}, and pervert {H5557} the words {H1697} of the righteous {H6662}.

Complete Jewish Bible

You are not to distort justice or show favoritism, and you are not to accept a bribe, for a gift blinds the eyes of the wise and twists the words of even the upright.

Berean Standard Bible

Do not deny justice or show partiality. Do not accept a bribe, for a bribe blinds the eyes of the wise and twists the words of the righteous.

American Standard Version

Thou shalt not wrest justice: thou shalt not respect persons; neither shalt thou take a bribe; for a bribe doth blind the eyes of the wise, and pervert the words of the righteous.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Deuteronomy 16:19 delivers a foundational mandate for justice within Israel's nascent society, directly addressing those in positions of authority. It sternly prohibits three corrupting practices: the perversion of judgment, the showing of partiality, and the acceptance of bribes. This verse underscores God's unwavering demand for absolute integrity and fairness in all legal proceedings, asserting that such corruption not only undermines societal order but also spiritually blinds and morally compromises even the most discerning individuals.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within a significant block of covenant stipulations in Deuteronomy (chapters 12-26), often referred to as the Deuteronomic Code. Specifically, Deuteronomy 16 transitions from instructions regarding the three annual pilgrim festivals (Passover, Weeks, and Booths) in verses 1-17 to the establishment of a just judicial system in verses 18-20. Verse 18 mandates the appointment of judges and officers in every town, setting the stage for the ethical principles that must govern their conduct. Thus, Deuteronomy 16:19 serves as a crucial ethical cornerstone for the administration of justice, immediately followed by the powerful exhortation in [Deuteronomy 16:20](/deuteronomy/16-20 "Deuteronomy 16:20 - Justice, and Only Justice, You Shall Pursue") to "follow justice and justice alone." This placement highlights the inseparable link between Israel's worship of God and the practical outworking of His righteousness in their daily lives and legal structures.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** As Israel stood on the cusp of entering the Promised Land, they were transitioning from a nomadic existence to a settled agricultural society governed by divine law. Establishing a robust and equitable judicial system was paramount for maintaining social order, protecting the vulnerable, and distinguishing Israel from the corrupt legal practices prevalent among surrounding pagan nations. In the ancient Near East, justice was often dispensed by local elders or appointed officials, making them susceptible to personal biases, social pressures, and the insidious influence of bribes. This command from Moses, delivered before their settlement, aimed to preempt such corruption, ensuring that the covenant community would reflect God's character of perfect righteousness and justice, thereby securing His blessing and presence in the land.
* **Key Themes:** Deuteronomy 16:19 powerfully articulates several core themes central to the Deuteronomic worldview and broader biblical theology. It underscores the theme of **Impartial Justice**, demanding that legal decisions be based solely on truth and merit, without regard for social status, wealth, or personal connections, a principle echoed throughout the Pentateuch, as seen in [Leviticus 19:15](/leviticus/19-15 "Leviticus 19:15 - Impartiality in Judgment"). The verse also emphasizes the **Integrity of Authority**, particularly for those entrusted with public office, highlighting that their decisions must be unblemished by self-interest or external inducements. Finally, it serves as a stark warning about the **Corrupting Power of Bribes**, explaining that such "gifts" do not merely influence but actively "blind the eyes of the wise" and "pervert the words of the righteous," demonstrating their insidious capacity to distort truth and undermine moral clarity, a danger also highlighted in [Exodus 23:8](/exodus/23-8 "Exodus 23:8 - Warning Against Bribes").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Wrest (Hebrew, _nāṭâ'_):** The Hebrew verb נָטָה (_nāṭâ_) literally means "to stretch out," "to incline," or "to turn aside." In this context, when applied to judgment, it signifies distorting, twisting, or bending what is straight and right. It implies any action that deviates from the true course of justice, whether through deliberate manipulation, misapplication of law, or biased interpretation of facts. It speaks to the active subversion of truth.
* **Respect persons (Hebrew, _nākar pānîm'_):** This phrase, נָכַר פָּנִים (_nākar pānîm_), literally translates to "to recognize faces" or "to show favor to faces." It is an idiom for showing partiality or favoritism based on outward appearance, social standing, wealth, kinship, or any personal connection, rather than judging a case solely on its merits. It condemns discrimination and demands that all individuals, regardless of their status, receive equal treatment under the law.
* **Gift (Hebrew, _shōḥaḏ'_):** The Hebrew term שֹׁחַד (_shōḥaḏ_) specifically denotes a bribe or a corrupting present. Unlike a legitimate offering or tribute, _shōḥaḏ_ is given with the intent to influence a decision or action improperly, thereby perverting justice. The text's strong condemnation of _shōḥaḏ_ reveals God's absolute intolerance for any form of illicit gain that undermines truth, equity, and the integrity of the judicial process.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Thou shalt not wrest judgment;":** This initial prohibition sets the absolute standard for judicial conduct. It forbids any action that would twist, pervert, or distort the legal process or its outcome. Judges are commanded to uphold the law faithfully and apply it impartially, ensuring that the verdict aligns with truth and righteousness, not personal gain or external pressure.
* **"thou shalt not respect persons,":** Following the general prohibition against perversion, this clause specifically targets favoritism and partiality. It commands judges and authorities not to make decisions based on who a person is (their status, wealth, or influence) but solely on the evidence and the law. Justice must be blind to social distinctions, treating all litigants equally before the divine law.
* **"neither take a gift:":** This third prohibition directly addresses the insidious practice of bribery. It forbids the acceptance of any "gift" (bribe) that is intended to influence a judicial decision. This is a crucial safeguard against corruption, as bribes are a primary means by which judgment is "wrested" and "persons" are "respected" in an unrighteous manner.
* **"for a gift doth blind the eyes of the wise,":** This clause provides the divine rationale for the preceding prohibitions, particularly against bribes. It explains the devastating effect of a bribe: it corrupts perception and discernment. Even individuals renowned for their wisdom, insight, and ability to judge righteously can have their moral and intellectual clarity obscured by the lure of illicit gain, leading them astray from truth.
* **"and pervert the words of the righteous.":** This final clause further elaborates on the corrupting power of bribes, showing their impact on those who are otherwise morally upright. A bribe can cause even a righteous person to speak or act contrary to truth and justice, twisting their testimony, judgment, or counsel. It highlights how corruption can compromise not just the wicked, but also undermine the integrity of those who genuinely seek to uphold righteousness.

#### Literary Devices
Deuteronomy 16:19 employs several potent **Literary Devices** to convey its urgent message. The verse is structured as a series of direct **Prohibitions** ("Thou shalt not..."), emphasizing the non-negotiable nature of God's commands regarding justice. The use of **Parallelism** is evident in the three negative commands, creating a rhythmic and memorable structure that reinforces the comprehensive nature of the prohibition against judicial corruption. The latter part of the verse introduces a clear **Causality** ("for a gift doth blind..."), providing a compelling rationale for the preceding commands and explaining the inherent danger of bribes. The phrase "blind the eyes of the wise" uses a powerful **Metaphor**, depicting the spiritual and moral obfuscation that occurs when one's judgment is compromised by illicit gain, suggesting a loss of discernment rather than physical sight. The inclusion of "the wise" and "the righteous" in the consequences section also employs a form of **Hyperbole** or **Intensification**, underscoring that no one, regardless of their perceived integrity or intellect, is immune to the corrupting influence of bribery, thus highlighting its pervasive and destructive power.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Deuteronomy 16:19 profoundly reflects God's character as the ultimate standard of justice and righteousness. His commands for impartial judgment are not arbitrary rules but an extension of His own nature, for God Himself shows no partiality and cannot be bribed ([Deuteronomy 10:17](/deuteronomy/10-17 "Deuteronomy 10:17 - God's Impartiality")). This verse reveals that justice is not merely a legal concept but a theological imperative, foundational to the covenant relationship between God and His people. Corruption, particularly in the administration of justice, is therefore not just a societal ill but a direct affront to God's holiness and an act of covenant infidelity. The warning that bribes blind even the wise and pervert the righteous speaks to the pervasive nature of sin and its capacity to distort human perception and moral compass, even among those who should know better. It underscores the constant need for vigilance, integrity, and reliance on God's truth to maintain true righteousness in all areas of life.

* [Leviticus 19:15](/leviticus/19-15 "Leviticus 19:15 - Impartiality in Judgment")
* [Exodus 23:8](/exodus/23-8 "Exodus 23:8 - Warning Against Bribes")
* [Proverbs 17:23](/proverbs/17-23 "Proverbs 17:23 - The Secrecy and Effect of Bribes")
* [James 2:1-4](/james/2-1 "James 2:1-4 - Warning Against Partiality")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The timeless principles embedded in Deuteronomy 16:19 extend far beyond the ancient Israelite courtroom, offering profound guidance for personal and societal conduct today. This verse serves as a powerful call to uphold integrity, fairness, and truth in every sphere of life where decisions are made that affect others. It challenges us to examine our own hearts for any inclination towards partiality, whether based on wealth, social status, race, or personal affinity, and to resist the subtle or overt temptations of "gifts" that might compromise our principles or distort our judgment. In a world often plagued by corruption and injustice, this passage reminds us that true righteousness begins with individual commitment to God's standards, fostering a society where the vulnerable are protected, truth prevails, and justice flows like a river. It compels us to actively pursue and advocate for systems and practices that reflect God's impartial character, ensuring accountability and transparency in all leadership roles, from public office to our own homes.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life might I be tempted to "wrest judgment" or "respect persons" due to personal bias or external pressure?**
* **How does the warning that "a gift doth blind the eyes of the wise" challenge my own assumptions about my ability to remain objective in the face of temptation?**
* **What practical steps can I take to promote impartiality and integrity in my workplace, community, or personal relationships?**
* **How can I contribute to a culture where justice is pursued for all, especially for those who are marginalized or lack influence?**

### FAQ

**Why is the prohibition against bribes so strongly emphasized in this and other Old Testament passages?**

Answer: The strong emphasis on prohibiting bribes stems from their fundamental opposition to God's character and His covenant with Israel. God is inherently just and impartial ([Deuteronomy 10:17](/deuteronomy/10-17 "Deuteronomy 10:17 - God's Impartiality")), and His people were called to reflect His nature. Bribes directly undermine the very foundation of a righteous society by corrupting the judicial process, distorting truth, and favoring the powerful or wealthy over the innocent and vulnerable. They lead to unjust outcomes, erode public trust, and ultimately defile the land and the covenant community. The Bible views bribery not just as a legal offense but as a spiritual abomination that blinds discernment and perverts righteousness, even in those considered wise or upright, as [Proverbs 17:23](/proverbs/17-23 "Proverbs 17:23 - The Secrecy and Effect of Bribes") illustrates.

**How does Deuteronomy 16:19 apply to believers today, even if we are not judges or magistrates?**

Answer: While directly addressed to judges, the principles of Deuteronomy 16:19 are profoundly applicable to all believers today, transcending formal judicial roles. We are all called to embody God's justice and righteousness in our daily lives. This means making decisions impartially in our families, workplaces, and communities, resisting favoritism (as warned against in [James 2:1-4](/james/2-1 "James 2:1-4 - Warning Against Partiality")), and refusing to compromise our integrity for personal gain or influence. It speaks to the importance of intellectual honesty, moral clarity, and the courage to stand for truth, even when it is unpopular or costly. Every believer is called to be an agent of God's justice in their sphere of influence, striving for fairness and integrity in all interactions, knowing that even subtle forms of partiality or self-interest can "blind the eyes" and "pervert the words" of those who desire to be righteous.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Deuteronomy 16:19, with its uncompromising demand for impartial justice and its stark warning against corruption, finds its ultimate fulfillment and perfect embodiment in Jesus Christ. He is the righteous judge who never "wrests judgment" or "respects persons," demonstrating perfect impartiality in His earthly ministry by welcoming the marginalized and confronting the powerful without fear or favor ([Matthew 22:16](/matthew/22-16 "Matthew 22:16 - Jesus' Impartiality")). Unlike earthly judges susceptible to bribes, Jesus could not be swayed by any "gift" or worldly enticement; His judgment was always pure, rooted in divine truth and love. His cleansing of the Temple ([John 2:13-16](/john/2-13 "John 2:13-16 - Jesus Cleanses the Temple")) powerfully illustrates His intolerance for corruption within God's house. Furthermore, the cross of Christ stands as the supreme act of divine justice, where God, in His perfect righteousness, judged sin while simultaneously providing a way for the unrighteous to be justified, thus demonstrating how He is "just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus" ([Romans 3:25-26](/romans/3-25 "Romans 3:25-26 - God's Justice and Justification through Christ")). Through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus inaugurated a new kingdom where righteousness and justice reign supreme, empowering His followers by the Holy Spirit to pursue justice and integrity in a world still prone to corruption, reflecting the character of their perfectly righteous Lord ([Micah 6:8](/micah/6-8 "Micah 6:8 - What the Lord Requires")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.