¶ He that justifieth the wicked, and he that condemneth the just, even they both [are] abomination to the LORD.
He that justifieth {H6663} the wicked {H7563}, and he that condemneth {H7561} the just {H6662}, even they both {H8147} are abomination {H8441} to the LORD {H3068}.
He who justifies the wicked and he who condemns the righteous -both alike are an abomination to ADONAI.
Acquitting the guilty and condemning the righteous— both are detestable to the LORD.
He that justifieth the wicked, and he that condemneth the righteous, Both of them alike are an abomination to Jehovah.
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Exodus 23:7
Keep thee far from a false matter; and the innocent and righteous slay thou not: for I will not justify the wicked. -
Proverbs 18:5
¶ [It is] not good to accept the person of the wicked, to overthrow the righteous in judgment. -
Isaiah 5:23
Which justify the wicked for reward, and take away the righteousness of the righteous from him! -
Proverbs 24:23
¶ These [things] also [belong] to the wise. [It is] not good to have respect of persons in judgment. -
Proverbs 24:24
He that saith unto the wicked, Thou [art] righteous; him shall the people curse, nations shall abhor him: -
Amos 6:12
Shall horses run upon the rock? will [one] plow [there] with oxen? for ye have turned judgment into gall, and the fruit of righteousness into hemlock: -
Proverbs 15:8
¶ The sacrifice of the wicked [is] an abomination to the LORD: but the prayer of the upright [is] his delight.
Proverbs 17:15 delivers a profound indictment against the perversion of justice, declaring that both those who acquit the guilty and those who condemn the innocent are equally detestable in the eyes of the LORD. This verse underscores God's unwavering commitment to truth and righteousness, highlighting the severe moral offense of distorting justice.
Context
As part of the wisdom literature, the Book of Proverbs offers timeless moral and practical guidance for living a life that honors God. This particular proverb speaks directly to the importance of integrity within a community's legal and social systems. In ancient Israel, justice was often administered by local elders or judges at the city gate. The impartiality and honesty of their judgment were paramount for maintaining societal order, trust, and alignment with divine law. This verse reflects the core ethical principles that should govern all human interactions, especially those involving judgment and accountability.
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
Practical Application
Proverbs 17:15 holds profound relevance for individuals and societies today:
Reflection
This proverb is a timeless declaration of God's character and His demand for righteousness in human affairs. It reveals that the perversion of justice, whether by excusing the guilty or condemning the innocent, is not merely a societal ill but an act that is deeply offensive to the LORD Himself. Upholding justice is therefore not just a matter of good governance, but an essential aspect of reflecting God's own nature in the world.