Exodus 23:6

KJV

Thou shalt not wrest the judgment of thy poor in his cause.

KJV (with Strong's)

Thou shalt not wrest {H5186} the judgment {H4941} of thy poor {H34} in his cause {H7379}.

Complete Jewish Bible

"Do not deny anyone justice in his lawsuit simply because he is poor.

Berean Standard Bible

You shall not deny justice to the poor in their lawsuits.

American Standard Version

Thou shalt not wrest the justice due to thy poor in his cause.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Exodus 23:6 presents a foundational ethical and legal command within the Mosaic Law, unequivocally prohibiting the perversion of justice against the poor. This divine mandate underscores God's profound commitment to equity, fairness, and the protection of the most vulnerable members of society, ensuring that their legal rights are upheld without prejudice, distortion, or exploitation. It is a cornerstone for establishing a righteous community where the judicial system actively reflects God's impartial character, championing the cause of the disadvantaged and preventing corruption from denying them their legitimate due.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Exodus 23:6 is situated within the "Book of the Covenant" (Exodus 20:22-23:33), a collection of laws that elaborate on the Ten Commandments, providing practical guidelines for Israel's societal and ethical life. Specifically, it belongs to a section addressing judicial ethics and social justice (Exodus 23:1-9). The verses immediately preceding it establish crucial principles for righteous legal conduct: a prohibition against spreading false reports or bearing false witness ([Exodus 23:1](/exodus/23-1 "Exodus 23:1 - No False Reports")); a warning against following the crowd in doing evil or perverting justice ([Exodus 23:2](/exodus/23-2 "Exodus 23:2 - Do Not Follow the Crowd to Do Evil")); and a nuanced directive not to show partiality even to the poor in a lawsuit ([Exodus 23:3](/exodus/23-3 "Exodus 23:3 - Do Not Show Partiality to the Poor")). This immediate literary context highlights the absolute necessity of impartial justice, emphasizing that while one should not show undue favor (which would be a perversion of justice), neither should one *wrest* a poor person's judgment against them. The subsequent verses continue to elaborate on compassionate justice, including commands to help an enemy's animal ([Exodus 23:4](/exodus/23-4 "Exodus 23:4 - Help Your Enemy's Animal")) and to avoid bribery ([Exodus 23:8](/exodus/23-8 "Exodus 23:8 - Do Not Take a Bribe")), collectively painting a comprehensive picture of a just and merciful society under God's covenant.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, the administration of justice was a vital function, often carried out by elders, judges, or priests at the city gate, which served as the public square and legal forum. This decentralized system was intended to embody God's righteous character within the community. The "poor" (Hebrew: _dal_ or _ʼebyôwn_), often lacking land, powerful family connections, or financial resources, were inherently vulnerable to exploitation and injustice. Their social standing made them susceptible to having their legitimate claims ignored, twisted, or dismissed by those with more influence, wealth, or social standing. God's repeated commands throughout the Torah to protect the poor, the widow, the orphan, and the sojourner (e.g., [Deuteronomy 10:18-19](/deuteronomy/10-18-19 "Deuteronomy 10:18-19 - God's Justice for the Vulnerable")) reveal a radical divine concern for social equity that often contrasted sharply with other ancient Near Eastern legal codes, which frequently favored the wealthy and powerful. Exodus 23:6, therefore, was a revolutionary declaration of divine justice, ensuring that even the most marginalized had a fundamental right to a fair hearing and a just outcome, reflecting the covenantal relationship between God and His people, where justice was a non-negotiable cornerstone of their societal structure.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the Book of Exodus and the broader Pentateuch. Foremost is the theme of **Divine Justice and Righteousness**, demonstrating that God's character is inherently just and that He demands His people to reflect this attribute in their societal structures, particularly the judicial system. It emphasizes **Care for the Vulnerable**, highlighting God's special concern for the poor, the oppressed, and the marginalized, a theme consistently echoed throughout the Law and Prophets (e.g., [Deuteronomy 24:17](/deuteronomy/24-17 "Deuteronomy 24:17 - Do Not Pervert Justice for the Sojourner, Orphan, or Widow")). The command also underscores the theme of **Impartiality in Judgment**, asserting that justice must be blind to social status, wealth, or power, a principle articulated in other passages like [Leviticus 19:15](/leviticus/19-15 "Leviticus 19:15 - Do Not Show Partiality in Judgment"). Furthermore, it speaks to the theme of **Covenantal Obedience**, as upholding justice for the poor was not merely a good social practice but a direct act of obedience to the God who delivered them from oppression and established them as a righteous nation. This commitment to justice is foundational to Israel's identity as God's chosen people, called to be a light to the nations (cf. [Isaiah 42:1-4](/isaiah/42-1-4 "Isaiah 42:1-4 - The Servant of the Lord Brings Justice")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Wrest (Hebrew, _nâṭâh'_):** From H5186, this primitive root means "to stretch or spread out; by implication, to bend away (including moral deflection); used in a great variety of application." In a legal context, it signifies a deliberate act of distorting, perverting, or twisting justice away from its rightful course. It implies a manipulation of facts, law, or procedure to disadvantage one party, specifically the poor. It is not merely an error or oversight, but an intentional deviation from truth and equity, causing the scales of justice to tip unfairly.
* **Judgment (Hebrew, _mishpâṭ'_):** From H4941, this rich and comprehensive term refers to "a verdict (favorable or unfavorable) pronounced judicially, especially a sentence or formal decree (human or (participant's) divine law, individual or collective), including the act, the place, the suit, the crime, and the penalty; abstractly, justice, including a participant's right or privilege (statutory or customary), or even a style." To "wrest the judgment" means to deny the poor person their legitimate legal right, to corrupt the process that should lead to a just verdict, or to subvert the very principles by which justice is administered in their specific case.
* **Poor (Hebrew, _ʼebyôwn'_):** From H34, derived from a root meaning "to want (especially in feeling)," this term denotes someone who is "destitute; beggar, needy, poor (man)." Unlike other Hebrew terms for the poor, _ʼebyôwn_ often emphasizes a state of profound need and vulnerability, often implying one who is dependent on others for sustenance and justice. The command specifically targets the protection of this highly vulnerable group within the legal system, acknowledging their inherent disadvantage and susceptibility to oppression.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Thou shalt not wrest":** This opening phrase is a direct, absolute prohibition, employing the negative imperative characteristic of Mosaic Law. It conveys a divine command against any action that perverts or distorts justice. The strong, declarative nature of "Thou shalt not" emphasizes the severity of the act and its complete incompatibility with God's righteous character, demanding active resistance to injustice rather than passive acceptance.
* **"the judgment of thy poor":** This clause specifies the object of the prohibited action: the legal rights, claims, or verdict due to the poor. The phrase highlights God's particular and compassionate concern for those who are most vulnerable in society, recognizing that their lack of power, influence, or resources makes them easy targets for exploitation within the legal system. The possessive "thy" emphasizes the collective responsibility of the Israelite community, especially judges and those in authority, to protect and uphold the rights of their own disadvantaged members.
* **"in his cause":** This concluding phrase refers to the specific legal dispute, lawsuit, or case in which the poor person is involved. It underscores that the command applies to practical, real-world scenarios where a poor individual has a legitimate claim or is facing an accusation. Justice must be applied fairly and impartially to their specific situation, ensuring they receive a just hearing and outcome, regardless of their social standing or perceived lack of influence.

#### Literary Devices
Exodus 23:6 employs several impactful literary devices. The most prominent is **Direct Command**, conveyed through the absolute negative imperative "Thou shalt not." This is characteristic of Mosaic Law, emphasizing the divine authority behind the injunction and its non-negotiable nature. This direct address places the responsibility squarely on the individual and the collective judicial system to uphold justice. There is also significant use of **Legal Language**, employing terms like "wrest," "judgment," and "cause," which are precise and unambiguous within a judicial context, reinforcing the practical application of the command. When read in conjunction with [Exodus 23:3](/exodus/23-3 "Exodus 23:3 - Do Not Show Partiality to the Poor"), the verse creates an element of **Antithesis**, establishing a balanced understanding of justice: it must be truly blind, neither biased against the poor nor unduly biased *for* them, but always rooted solely in truth and righteousness. Finally, the specific focus on the "poor" serves as a powerful form of **Emphasis**, highlighting God's consistent and compassionate concern for the marginalized throughout the Law and His covenant with Israel.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Exodus 23:6 profoundly reveals God's character as the ultimate arbiter of justice and the unwavering champion of the oppressed. It establishes a core theological principle: the true righteousness and moral integrity of a community are measured by how it treats its most vulnerable members. God demands a legal system that mirrors His own impartiality, compassion, and unwavering commitment to truth, where the scales of justice are balanced for everyone, irrespective of their social or economic standing. This command is not merely a legal statute but a theological declaration that God's covenant people are called to embody His justice in all their dealings, particularly in matters of law and judgment. It underscores the sanctity of individual rights, even for the powerless, and vehemently condemns any form of corruption, manipulation, or bias that would deny them their due. This divine concern for justice for the poor is a recurring motif throughout Scripture, demonstrating God's consistent heart for the marginalized.

* [Deuteronomy 16:19](/deuteronomy/16-19 "Deuteronomy 16:19 - Do Not Pervert Justice")
* [Proverbs 22:22-23](/proverbs/22-22-23 "Proverbs 22:22-23 - Do Not Oppress the Poor")
* [Isaiah 1:17](/isaiah/1-17 "Isaiah 1:17 - Seek Justice, Defend the Oppressed")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Exodus 23:6 remains profoundly relevant for individuals and societies today, extending far beyond formal legal settings. It calls us to cultivate a heart for justice that actively seeks to protect and advocate for the vulnerable in all spheres of life. In our daily interactions, this means conscientiously refusing to take advantage of those in weaker positions, whether in business dealings, social interactions, or community decisions. It compels us to challenge systemic injustices, support initiatives that provide legal aid or resources to the marginalized, and ensure that our own judgments and actions are free from prejudice or bias. For those in positions of authority—whether in government, business, education, or ministry—it serves as a stark reminder of the sacred trust to administer fairness and equity to all, especially those who cannot adequately advocate for themselves. Ultimately, living out the spirit of this verse means mirroring God's own character, becoming active agents of His impartial justice and compassion in a world too often characterized by exploitation, inequality, and the perversion of truth.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my personal life, professional interactions, or community involvement might I be inadvertently "wresting the judgment" of the poor or vulnerable, perhaps through inaction, complacency, or unexamined biases?**
* **How can I actively advocate for and protect the rights of the marginalized in my sphere of influence, whether through direct action, supporting just causes, or challenging unfair systems?**
* **What internal biases or external pressures might prevent me from rendering truly impartial judgment in various situations, and what steps can I take to address them and pursue genuine equity?**

### FAQ

**What does "wrest the judgment" specifically mean in this context?**

Answer: To "wrest the judgment" means to twist, pervert, or deliberately distort the legal rights, claims, or case of someone, particularly the poor. It implies a conscious act of manipulation or corruption within the judicial process, where the truth, evidence, or the law itself is bent to deny a fair and righteous outcome. It is more than a simple mistake; it is an active subversion of justice. This could involve misinterpreting evidence, applying the law unfairly, allowing bribery or partiality to influence a verdict, or even using legal technicalities to disadvantage a vulnerable party. The command is against any action that would deny the poor person their legitimate due in a court of law, ensuring that their cause is heard and judged with integrity, as God demands impartial justice for all (cf. [Deuteronomy 1:17](/deuteronomy/1-17 "Deuteronomy 1:17 - Do Not Show Partiality in Judgment")).

**Why does God specifically mention the "poor" in this command?**

Answer: God specifically mentions the "poor" because they were, and often still are, the most vulnerable members of society, lacking the power, influence, and resources to defend themselves effectively in legal disputes. In ancient Israel, the wealthy and powerful could easily exploit the legal system to their advantage, while the poor were often defenseless against such machinations. God's consistent concern for the marginalized—including the poor, the widow, the orphan, and the sojourner—is a recurring and central theme throughout the Old Testament (e.g., [Deuteronomy 10:18](/deuteronomy/10-18 "Deuteronomy 10:18 - God's Justice for the Orphan and Widow"); [Psalm 82:3-4](/psalms/82-3-4 "Psalm 82:3-4 - Defend the Poor and Needy")). This concern reflects His own righteous and compassionate character. By explicitly commanding protection for the poor in the judicial system, God ensured that His people's society would reflect His justice, protecting those most susceptible to injustice and exploitation, thereby establishing a truly equitable and God-honoring community.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Exodus 23:6, with its unwavering demand for impartial justice for the poor, finds its ultimate fulfillment and perfect embodiment in the person and ministry of Jesus Christ. While the Mosaic Law provided external statutes for a just society, Jesus perfectly modeled and inaugurated the kingdom where true justice and righteousness reign from within. He consistently identified with the poor, the marginalized, and the oppressed, declaring a special blessing upon them, both those materially poor and those spiritually destitute ([Matthew 5:3](/matthew/5-3 "Matthew 5:3 - Blessed Are the Poor in Spirit"); [Luke 6:20](/luke/6-20 "Luke 6:20 - Blessed Are You Who Are Poor")). His earthly ministry was characterized by actively defending those whose "judgment" was often "wrested" by the religious and political powers of His day—whether it was the woman caught in adultery ([John 8:1-11](/john/8-1-11 "John 8:1-11 - The Woman Caught in Adultery")), the tax collectors and sinners whom He welcomed ([Luke 15:1-2](/luke/15-1-2 "Luke 15:1-2 - Jesus Welcomes Sinners")), or the sick and outcast whom He healed and restored to community. Jesus did not merely uphold the letter of the Law; He fulfilled its spirit by living out its radical compassion and justice, demonstrating that true righteousness involves actively seeking the well-being and rights of the vulnerable. His ultimate act of justice was offering Himself as the perfect sacrifice on the cross, taking upon Himself the judgment due to humanity, so that all who believe, rich or poor, might receive true spiritual justice and eternal life through His atoning work ([Romans 3:23-26](/romans/3-23-26 "Romans 3:23-26 - Righteousness Through Faith")). Through Him, believers are empowered by the Holy Spirit to pursue justice and mercy in the world, reflecting the very heart of God for the oppressed and embodying the righteousness of the Kingdom of God ([Micah 6:8](/micah/6-8 "Micah 6:8 - Act Justly, Love Mercy"); [Matthew 25:31-46](/matthew/25-31-46 "Matthew 25:31-46 - The Sheep and the Goats")).

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.

Cross-References

Malachi 3:5

And I will come near to you to judgment; and I will be a swift witness against the sorcerers, and against the adulterers, and against false swearers, and against those that oppress the hireling in [his] wages, the widow, and the fatherless, and that turn aside the stranger [from his right], and fear not me, saith the LORD of hosts.

Deuteronomy 16:19

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.

Ecclesiastes 5:8

If thou seest the oppression of the poor, and violent perverting of judgment and justice in a province, marvel not at the matter: for [he that is] higher than the highest regardeth; and [there be] higher than they.

Exodus 23:2

Thou shalt not follow a multitude to [do] evil; neither shalt thou speak in a cause to decline after many to wrest [judgment]:

Exodus 23:3

Neither shalt thou countenance a poor man in his cause.

Jeremiah 5:28

They are waxen fat, they shine: yea, they overpass the deeds of the wicked: they judge not the cause, the cause of the fatherless, yet they prosper; and the right of the needy do they not judge.

Deuteronomy 27:19

Cursed [be] he that perverteth the judgment of the stranger, fatherless, and widow. And all the people shall say, Amen.