TRV
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Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Leviticus 19:30–37. His two-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
Here is, I. A law for the preserving of the honour of the time and place appropriated to the service of God, Lev 19:30. This would be a means to secure them both from the idolatries and superstitions of the heathen and from all immoralities in conversation. 1. Sabbaths must be religiously observed, and not those times mentioned (Lev 19:26) to which the heathen had a superstitious regard. 2. The sanctuary must be reverenced: great care must be taken to approach the tabernacle with that purity and preparation which the law required, and to attend there with that humility, decency, and closeness of application which became them in the immediate presence of such an awful majesty. Though now there is no place holy by divine institution, as the tabernacle and temple then were, yet this law obliges us to respect the solemn assemblies of Christians for religious worship, as being held under a promise of Christ's special presence in them, and to carry ourselves with a due decorum while in those assemblies we attend the administration of holy ordinances, Ecc 5:1.
II.A caution against all communion with witches, and those that were in league with familiar spirits:
"Regard them not, seek not after them, be not in fear of any evil from them nor in hopes of any good from them. Regard not their threatenings, or promises, or predictions; seek not to them for discovery or advice, for, if you do, you are defiled by it, and rendered abominable both to God and your own consciences." This was the sin that completed Saul's wickedness, for which he was rejected of God, Ch1 10:13.
III.A charge to young people to show respect to the aged:
Thou shall rise up before the hoary head, Lev 19:32. Age is honourable, and he that is the Ancient of days requires that honour be paid to it. The hoary head is a crown of glory. Those whom God has honoured with the common blessing of long life we ought to honour with the distinguishing expressions of civility; and those who in age are wise and good are worthy of double honour: more respect is owing to such old men than merely to rise up before them; their credit and comfort must be carefully consulted, their experience and observations improved, and their counsels asked and hearkened to, Job 32:6, Job 32:7. Some, by the old man whose face or presence is to be honoured, understand the elder in office, as by the hoary head the elder in age; both ought to be respected as fathers, and in the fear of God, who has put some of his honour upon both. Note, Religion teaches good manners, and obliges us to give honour to those to whom honour is due. It is an instance of great degeneracy and disorder in a land when the child behaves himself proudly against the ancient, and the base against the honourable, Isa 3:5; Job 30:1, Job 30:12. It becomes the aged to receive this honour, and the younger to give it; for it is the ornament as well as duty of their youth to order themselves lowly and reverently to all their betters.
IV.A charge to the Israelites to be very tender of strangers, Lev 19:33, Lev 19:34.
Both the law of God and his providence had vastly dignified Israel above any other people, yet they must not therefore think themselves authorized to trample upon all mankind but those of their own nation, and to insult them at their pleasure; no, "Thou shall not vex a stranger, but love him as thyself, and as one of thy own people." It is supposed that this stranger was not an idolater, but a worshipper of the God of Israel, though not circumcised, a proselyte of the gate at least, though not a proselyte of righteousness: if such a one sojourned among them, they must not vex him, nor oppress, nor over-reach him in a bargain, taking advantage of his ignorance of their laws and customs; they must reckon it as great a sin to cheat a stranger as to cheat an Israelite; "nay" (say the Jewish doctors) "they must not so much as upbraid him with his being a stranger, and his having been formerly an idolater." Strangers are God's particular care, as the widow and the fatherless are, because it is his honour to help the helpless, Psa 146:9. It is therefore at our peril if we do them any wrong, or put any hardships upon them. Strangers shall be welcome to God's grace, and therefore we should do what we can to invite them to it, and to recommend religion to their good opinion. It argues a generous disposition, and a pious regard to God, as a common Father, to be kind to strangers; for those of different countries, customs, and languages, are all made of one blood. But here is a reason added peculiar to the Jews: "For you were strangers in the land of Egypt. God then favoured you, therefore do you now favour the strangers, and do to them as you then wished to be done to. You were strangers, and yet are now thus highly advanced; therefore you know not what these strangers may come to, whom you are apt to despise."
V.Justice in weights and measures is here commanded.
That there should be no cheat in them, Lev 19:35. That they should be very exact, Lev 19:36. In weighing and measuring, we pretend a design to give all those their own whom we deal with; but, if the weights and measures be false, it is like a corruption in judgment, it cheats under colour of justice; and thus to deceive a man to his damage is worse than picking his pocket or robbing him on the highway. He that sells is bound to give the full of the commodity, and he that buys the full of the price agreed upon, which cannot be done without just balances, weights, and measures. Let no man go beyond or defraud his brother, for, though it be hidden from man, it will be found that God is the avenger of all such.
VI.The chapter concludes with a general command (Lev 19:37): You shall observe all my statutes, and do them. Note,
1.We are not likely to do God's statutes, unless we observe them with great care and consideration.
2.Yet it is not enough barely to observe God's precepts, but we must make conscience of obeying them. What will it avail us to be critical in our notions, if we be not conscientious in our conversations?
3.An upright heart has respect to all God's commandments, Psa 119:6. Though in many instances the hand fails in doing what should be done, yet the eye observes all God's statutes. We are not allowed to pick and choose our duty, but must aim at standing complete in all the will of God.
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Summary
Leviticus 19:35 delivers a profound divine imperative for absolute integrity and righteousness across all forms of judgment and commercial transactions. As a foundational element of the "Holiness Code," this verse underscores God's unwavering expectation that His people reflect His character of perfect justice and fairness, not only in formal legal pronouncements but also in the mundane, everyday dealings involving measurements of length, weight, and volume, thereby ensuring equitable and honest treatment for all members of society.
Context
Literary Context
Leviticus 19 is a central chapter within the "Holiness Code" (chapters 17-26), a significant portion of the Pentateuch dedicated to outlining the ethical and moral requirements for Israel to live as a holy nation, distinct and set apart for God. Following the detailed sacrificial and purity laws, this code shifts focus to the practical outworking of holiness in daily life. Chapter 19 itself is a rich and diverse collection of commands, frequently introduced by the recurring, authoritative declaration, "I am the LORD your God" (e.g., Leviticus 19:2), which underscores the divine source and binding nature of these instructions. The chapter progresses from general principles such as honoring parents and observing the Sabbath to specific prohibitions against idolatry, stealing, lying, slandering, and oppressing the vulnerable. Verse 35 specifically falls within a block of commands (verses 33-37) that address the fair treatment of foreigners and the paramount importance of just weights and measures, culminating in a final exhortation to diligently keep all of God's statutes.
Historical & Cultural Context
In the ancient Near East, commerce was an indispensable aspect of daily life, heavily reliant on standardized measures for a wide array of goods. Markets served as vibrant hubs where transactions involving grains, liquids, precious metals, and textiles were conducted through bartering or exchange, utilizing established units of length, weight, and volume. Regrettably, deceptive practices, such as the use of false scales or inaccurate measuring rods, were pervasive and frequently exploited the poor and vulnerable, who often had limited recourse. The command in Leviticus 19:35 directly confronts this widespread injustice, extending the principle of righteousness from formal legal "judgment" (referring to judicial decisions) to the practicalities of the marketplace. This divine mandate was revolutionary, establishing an ethical standard far superior to the common, often exploitative, practices of the time, thereby reflecting God's profound concern for social equity and the well-being of every individual, particularly those susceptible to economic exploitation.
Key Themes
Leviticus 19:35 profoundly contributes to several key theological and narrative themes prevalent throughout the book of Leviticus and the broader Pentateuch. Foremost among these is the theme of Holiness, emphasizing that God's people are called to reflect His character in all areas of life, not just in ritual worship, as articulated in the overarching command, "You shall be holy, for I the LORD your God am holy". This verse also underscores Divine Justice and Equity, revealing God's deep concern for fairness in society and His protection of the vulnerable from exploitation. It highlights that true righteousness extends to the most mundane commercial dealings, making economic integrity a spiritual matter. Furthermore, it reinforces the theme of Covenant Obedience, where adherence to these practical commands is a tangible expression of Israel's faithfulness to their covenant relationship with Yahweh. The meticulous detail concerning measurements also speaks to God's Sovereignty over all aspects of life, demonstrating that His moral law applies universally, permeating even the marketplace and the legal system, as seen in similar commands for justice found in Deuteronomy 25:13-16.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This term (H5766), also rendered as ʻavel or ʻavlah, denotes moral evil, iniquity, perverseness, or wickedness. It describes any act that deviates from what is right, equitable, or morally upright. In the context of Leviticus 19:35, it encompasses not merely overt cheating but any subtle manipulation, distortion of truth, or partiality that results in an unfair outcome, whether in a legal ruling or a commercial transaction. It speaks to a fundamental breach of God's righteous character and His standard of justice.
This word (H4941), derived from shâphaṭ (to judge), primarily refers to a verdict pronounced judicially, a sentence, or a formal decree. It encompasses human and divine law, including the act of judging, the place of judgment, the legal suit, the crime, and the penalty. Abstractly, it signifies justice, a participant's right or privilege, or even a customary practice. In this verse, mishpâṭ refers specifically to the formal legal system, prohibiting any perversion of justice, bias, or corruption in judicial decisions.
This primitive root (H6213) is a broad verb meaning "to do or make" in the widest sense and application. Its inclusion here emphasizes the active nature of the command: Israel is not merely to avoid unrighteousness passively, but actively to refrain from doing it. This verb highlights the intentionality and responsibility inherent in the divine instruction, demanding a conscious choice to act with integrity in all dealings.
Verse Breakdown
"Ye shall do no unrighteousness in judgment,"
This initial clause establishes the overarching principle of the command, setting the moral foundation. "Judgment" (mishpâṭ) here refers primarily to the formal legal or judicial sphere. The command prohibits any perversion of justice, any bias, corruption, or unfairness within the legal system, ensuring that verdicts and rulings are always righteous, impartial, and aligned with God's perfect standard. This foundational directive then extends its ethical demand to the everyday commercial realm.
"in meteyard, in weight, or in measure."
This second clause expands the principle of "no unrighteousness" from the formal judicial sphere to the practicalities of the daily marketplace. It specifically targets the common methods of commercial exchange: meteyard (H4060, referring to a standard of length for items like cloth or land), weight (H4948, referring to a standard weight for commodities like grain or silver, used with scales), and measure (H4884, referring to a standard of volume for liquids or dry goods). This comprehensive listing underscores God's meticulous concern for honesty and integrity in every transaction, no matter how small, ensuring that all parties receive precisely what is genuinely due to them, preventing exploitation and promoting equity.
Literary Devices
Leviticus 19:35 skillfully employs several literary devices to convey its powerful and comprehensive message. The most prominent is Merism, where two contrasting or complementary parts are used to represent a complete whole. By specifying "judgment" (the formal legal sphere) and then "meteyard, weight, or measure" (the practical, everyday commercial sphere), the verse comprehensively covers all areas where fairness and integrity are required, from the highest court to the most common market stall. This device effectively emphasizes the all-encompassing nature of God's demand for righteousness, leaving no aspect of life untouched by His moral standard. Furthermore, the Repetition of the core concept of "no unrighteousness" across these distinct domains reinforces the absolute and non-negotiable nature of the command. The use of a concise, declarative Ethical Instruction ("Ye shall do no unrighteousness") renders the command direct, clear, and authoritative, leaving no room for ambiguity or equivocation regarding the expected conduct of God's people.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Leviticus 19:35 is profoundly rooted in the theological conviction that God's character is fundamentally righteous, just, and truthful. Therefore, His people are called to reflect this attribute in every facet of their lives, especially in their interactions with others. This command elevates commercial honesty from a mere ethical guideline to a divine imperative, demonstrating that economic integrity is a spiritual matter directly tied to one's relationship with God and one's identity as His holy people. It reveals God's deep concern for social equity, the protection of the vulnerable, and the establishment of a society built on truth and fairness, where the dignity and livelihood of every individual are respected. The meticulous detail concerning "meteyard, weight, or measure" highlights that God cares not only about grand theological principles but also about the practical, often mundane, details of daily life, emphasizing that holiness permeates even the marketplace and the most common transactions.
Reflection and Application
The timeless principle embedded in Leviticus 19:35 transcends the ancient marketplaces of Israel, calling believers today to a profound and unwavering commitment to integrity in every sphere of life. While literal meteyards and weights may be less common in our digital age, the spirit of this law demands absolute honesty in all our dealings—whether in business negotiations, personal finances, academic pursuits, professional services, or even online interactions. It challenges us to meticulously examine our pricing strategies, advertising claims, contractual agreements, and the way we represent ourselves, our products, or our services. It encourages transparency, accuracy, and a genuine desire to treat others with the same fairness and respect we would wish to receive, ensuring that our pursuit of profit, personal gain, or advantage never comes at the expense of another's rightful due or dignity. Ultimately, living out this command is a powerful, counter-cultural testimony to God's character in a world often marked by deceit and self-interest, demonstrating that our faith shapes not just our worship and private morality but also the very fabric of our daily lives and economic interactions.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why is God so specific about "meteyard, weight, or measure"?
God's specificity about "meteyard, weight, or measure" in Leviticus 19:35 highlights His meticulous and comprehensive concern for justice and equity in the most practical and common aspects of daily life. In ancient societies, these were the fundamental tools of commerce, directly impacting the livelihood and well-being of individuals. Dishonesty in these areas, such as using false scales or short measures, directly translated into defrauding one's neighbor, particularly the poor and vulnerable who were easily exploited. By addressing these specifics, God demonstrates that true holiness is not confined to religious rituals or grand theological principles but permeates every transaction and interaction. This specificity underscores that God cares deeply about both the overarching principles of justice and the minute, often mundane, details of how we treat our neighbor in daily economic life.
Does this command apply to modern business practices, even without literal "meteyards" or "weights"?
Absolutely. While the specific tools (meteyards, weights, measures) have evolved with technological advancements, the underlying principle of Leviticus 19:35 remains profoundly relevant and binding for modern business practices. It calls for absolute honesty, transparency, and integrity in all commercial dealings. This translates to accurate pricing, truthful advertising, fair contracts, transparent financial reporting, ethical sales practices, and honest representation of products and services, whether digital or physical. Whether it's a complex financial agreement, a simple online purchase, or the delivery of a professional service, the command prohibits any form of deceit, manipulation, or misrepresentation that would lead to an unrighteous gain for oneself or an unfair disadvantage for another party. The enduring spirit of the law demands that our business practices consistently reflect God's character of justice and truth.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Leviticus 19:35, with its uncompromising demand for absolute righteousness in judgment and commerce, finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in the person and work of Jesus Christ. He is the perfect embodiment of divine justice and truth, the one who "committed no sin, neither was deceit found in his mouth" (1 Peter 2:22). Unlike the merchants who might use false weights and measures, Jesus always dealt in perfect truth and integrity, even when facing immense pressure and opposition, challenging His accusers, "Which of you convicts me of sin?". His teachings consistently upheld the spirit of this law, emphasizing the importance of unwavering honesty in speech ("Let what you say be simply 'Yes' or 'No'" - Matthew 5:37) and the foundational principle of treating others as one would wish to be treated, often known as the Golden Rule (Matthew 7:12). Furthermore, Christ's atoning sacrifice on the cross establishes the perfect righteousness necessary for humanity to stand before a holy God, fulfilling the law's demand for unblemished integrity where we could not. As believers, we are called to live as new creations in Him, empowered by the Holy Spirit to pursue righteousness and justice in all our dealings, reflecting His character in our marketplaces and judgments, just as He perfectly reflected the Father's will and truth (Ephesians 4:25).