Proverbs 20:23

Proverbs 20:23 delivers a clear and emphatic condemnation of dishonesty in commerce, stating, "¶ Divers weights [are] an abomination unto the LORD; and a false balance [is] not good." This verse underscores God's unwavering demand for integrity and fairness in all human dealings.

Context

The Book of Proverbs is a collection of practical wisdom for daily living, guiding individuals in righteous conduct and character. In ancient Israel, trade and commerce were fundamental to society, and transactions often involved the use of physical scales and weights. The temptation to manipulate these tools for personal gain was ever-present. This proverb, therefore, addresses a very real and common ethical challenge of its time, emphasizing that God's moral law extends to the marketplace and financial transactions.

Key Themes

• Divine Justice and Integrity: The verse highlights God's intrinsic character as a God of justice who demands honesty from His people. Deception in trade is not merely a social ill but a direct affront to His nature.
• Rejection of Deceit: The phrase "divers weights" (Hebrew: 'even va'even) refers to the practice of having two sets of weights—one heavier for buying and one lighter for selling—to cheat customers. A "false balance" (Hebrew: mo'znei mirmah) signifies rigged scales. Both practices are explicitly called an "abomination" (Hebrew: to'ebah), a strong term indicating something utterly detestable to God, often used for idolatry or severe moral offenses.
• Fairness in Commerce: This proverb champions the principle of equitable exchange, ensuring that both buyer and seller receive a just deal. It reflects a foundational principle of the Law, as seen in Leviticus 19:36 and Deuteronomy 25:15, which commanded Israel to have "a perfect and just weight, a perfect and just measure."

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew term for "divers weights," 'even va'even, literally means "a stone and a stone," referring to the unethical practice of having a heavier set of weights for purchasing goods and a lighter set for selling them. This ensured the merchant always profited unfairly. The "false balance," mo'znei mirmah, further underscores the deliberate intent to deceive. The word "abomination," to'ebah, used here is particularly strong, indicating something morally repugnant to God, demonstrating the seriousness with which God views dishonesty.

Related Scriptures

This principle of honest weights and measures is a recurring theme throughout the Old Testament wisdom literature and law:

• Proverbs 11:1 declares, "A false balance [is] abomination to the LORD: but a just weight [is] his delight."
• Proverbs 16:11 states, "A just weight and balance [are] the LORD's: all the weights of the bag [are] his work."
• The Law of Moses also strictly forbade such practices, emphasizing the importance of having true and honest weights.

Practical Application

While literal scales and weights may be less common in modern commerce, the principle of Proverbs 20:23 remains profoundly relevant. It calls believers to unwavering honesty and transparency in all financial dealings, business practices, and personal interactions. This includes:

• Ethical Business Practices: Ensuring fair pricing, accurate advertising, and honest reporting.
• Financial Integrity: Being truthful in taxes, investments, and personal budgeting.
• Relational Honesty: Upholding truthfulness in promises, agreements, and communication, recognizing that our words also carry "weight."

Ultimately, this proverb reminds us that God is concerned not only with our spiritual devotion but also with our daily conduct and how we treat others. Our integrity in the smallest of transactions reflects our reverence for God and our love for our neighbor, aligning with the broader call to do justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God.