Proverbs 21:27

KJV

¶ The sacrifice of the wicked [is] abomination: how much more, [when] he bringeth it with a wicked mind?

KJV (with Strong's)

The sacrifice {H2077} of the wicked {H7563} is abomination {H8441}: how much more, when he bringeth {H935} it with a wicked mind {H2154}?

Complete Jewish Bible

The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination; how much more when he brings it with vile motives.

Berean Standard Bible

The sacrifice of the wicked is detestable— how much more so when brought with ill intent!

American Standard Version

The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination; How much more, when he bringeth it with a wicked mind!

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 21:27 issues a severe condemnation of insincere worship, declaring that any sacrifice offered by the wicked is inherently detestable to God. The proverb intensifies this indictment by asserting that when such an offering is presented with deliberate malicious intent or a corrupt inner disposition, its abominable nature is profoundly magnified, underscoring God's unwavering demand for genuine righteousness and purity of heart over mere outward religious performance.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Proverbs 21 is a rich tapestry of independent wisdom sayings, characteristic of the book's didactic style, providing practical and theological guidance on righteous living, the consequences of moral choices, and the nature of God's judgment. This particular proverb is strategically placed among verses that highlight the futility of human efforts apart from divine favor and the importance of integrity. For instance, it follows a proverb contrasting the covetous with the righteous, who give generously ([Proverbs 21:26](/proverbs/21-26 "Proverbs 21:26 - The Covetous and the Righteous")), setting a precedent for evaluating actions based on the heart. The theme of God's discerning gaze, which penetrates beyond outward appearance to the hidden motives, is a recurring motif throughout the Book of Proverbs, establishing a consistent theological principle that true piety is rooted in internal disposition rather than external ritual.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, the sacrificial system was the divinely ordained core of religious life, serving as the primary means of atonement, thanksgiving, and communion with God, as meticulously prescribed in the Mosaic Law, particularly in the early chapters of [Leviticus](/leviticus/1-7 "Leviticus 1-7 - Laws of Offerings"). These rituals involved specific procedures and offerings brought to the Tabernacle and later, the Temple in Jerusalem. However, a consistent thread throughout Israel's prophetic tradition challenged the notion that outward adherence to these rituals was sufficient without an accompanying heart of obedience, justice, and moral integrity. Prophets like Samuel, who famously declared that "to obey is better than sacrifice" ([1 Samuel 15:22](/1_samuel/15-22 "1 Samuel 15:22 - Obedience Better Than Sacrifice")), and later figures such as Isaiah ([Isaiah 1:11-17](/isaiah/1-11-17 "Isaiah 1:11-17 - God's Disdain for Empty Ritual")) and Amos ([Amos 5:21-24](/amos/5-21-24 "Amos 5:21-24 - God Desires Justice, Not Empty Worship")) vehemently condemned ritualistic worship devoid of genuine repentance, moral uprightness, and social justice. Proverbs 21:27 stands firmly within this venerable prophetic tradition, unequivocally stating that God's judgment pierces through the external act to the internal disposition of the worshiper.
* **Key Themes:** This proverb profoundly contributes to several foundational themes prevalent in the Book of Proverbs and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it powerfully articulates the theme of **Sincerity vs. Hypocrisy**, emphasizing that God fundamentally values the authenticity of the heart over any outward religious performance. A sacrifice, or indeed any act of worship, is only truly acceptable to God if it emanates from a genuine desire for righteousness and devotion, not as a mere formality or cover-up. Secondly, it underscores **God's Omniscience and Moral Judgment**, revealing that the Almighty sees not merely the actions performed but also the hidden motives, intentions, and the true condition of the heart. No outward show of piety can deceive Him; He judges the true state of the soul, a truth echoed in other proverbs like [Proverbs 15:8](/proverbs/15-8 "Proverbs 15:8 - The Sacrifice of the Wicked is an Abomination"). Finally, it reinforces the theme of **The Nature of True Worship**, asserting that genuine worship is inextricably linked to a life of moral integrity, justice, and a heart aligned with God's will, rather than being a superficial or ritualistic exercise.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **sacrifice (Hebrew, _zebach'_):** (H2077) Derived from the root meaning "to slaughter," this term properly refers to the act of slaughtering an animal for an offering, or the flesh of the animal itself. By implication, it signifies a sacrifice or offering. In the Old Testament, `zebach` often denotes a communal offering, such as a peace offering or fellowship offering, where the worshiper shared in a meal with God. The use of this specific term here highlights the religious act itself, an act divinely ordained for communion and atonement, yet one that becomes corrupted and offensive when performed by a heart out of alignment with God.
* **abomination (Hebrew, _tôwʻêbah'_):** (H8441) This is an exceptionally strong Hebrew word, signifying something utterly disgusting, morally repugnant, an abhorrence, or an detestable thing to God. It is frequently employed in scripture to describe idolatry, sexual perversions, dishonest practices, and other grave sins that are a direct affront to God's holy character. Its application to the "sacrifice of the wicked" underscores the profound severity of God's rejection, indicating that such an offering is not merely ineffective or ignored, but actively offensive, loathsome, and deeply detestable to Him.
* **wicked mind (Hebrew, _zimmâh'_):** (H2154) This term denotes a plan, especially a bad one, implying malicious intent, depraved thoughts, or evil schemes. It suggests a deliberate, calculating wickedness, a premeditated evil. The phrase "with a wicked mind" intensifies the initial condemnation, indicating that when a person brings a sacrifice (or performs any religious act) while harboring such a corrupt inner disposition—a heart full of evil designs or a conscious intent to deceive—their action is not just an abomination, but an even greater offense, demonstrating a profound spiritual deceit and a mockery of God.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"The sacrifice of the wicked is abomination:"** This initial clause establishes a fundamental theological principle: any religious act, even one commanded by God (like sacrifice), becomes utterly detestable and repugnant when performed by someone whose life is characterized by unrighteousness, active rebellion, or a persistent pattern of sin. It is not the ritual itself that is inherently flawed, but the moral state and character of the one performing it. God, in His holiness, sees through the outward ritual to the true condition of the worshiper's heart.
* **"how much more, when he bringeth it with a wicked mind?"** This second clause functions as a powerful rhetorical question, designed to intensify and amplify the initial condemnation. If the mere "sacrifice of the wicked" is already an abomination, the proverb posits, how much more so is it when that wicked person brings the offering with deliberate, malicious intent, a depraved inner disposition, or a heart actively plotting evil? This emphasizes the profound hypocrisy and spiritual insult involved when religious acts are used as a facade for evil or are performed out of a heart full of corrupt schemes, making the offense exponentially more grievous in God's sight.

#### Literary Devices
Proverbs 21:27 masterfully employs several potent literary devices to convey its profound message with striking clarity and force. The most prominent is **Hyperbole**, particularly evident in the phrase "how much more," which serves to dramatically amplify the already strong condemnation of the wicked person's sacrifice. It implies that the offense is not merely an abomination but one that is exponentially worse when accompanied by malicious intent, emphasizing the depth of God's displeasure. There is also a clear **Contrast** established between the outward act of sacrifice (which should ideally be holy and acceptable) and the inward state of the worshiper (characterized by wickedness), highlighting the profound tension between appearance and reality in religious practice. Finally, the verse concludes with a **Rhetorical Question** ("how much more, when he bringeth it with a wicked mind?"), which is not intended to elicit a direct answer but to underscore the obvious, undeniable conclusion: the transgression is compounded and intensified when the wicked heart is consciously present and active in the very act of worship. This device powerfully engages the reader, compelling them to acknowledge the heightened severity of the transgression.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This proverb deeply resonates with the consistent biblical emphasis on the internal disposition of the heart as paramount to external religious observances. God is not impressed by mere ritualistic performance if the heart is far from Him or actively engaged in wickedness. True worship is an overflowing expression of a righteous heart, not a substitute for it. The theological implication is that God desires genuine relationship, moral integrity, and a contrite spirit more than any offering or outward display of piety. This principle underscores God's holiness and His unyielding demand for truth in the inward parts, exposing the utter futility and profound offense of hypocrisy in His sight.

* [Isaiah 1:11-17](/isaiah/1-11-17 "God's Disdain for Empty Rituals")
* [Amos 5:21-24](/amos/5-21-24 "God Desires Justice, Not Empty Worship")
* [Matthew 15:7-9](/matthew/15-7-9 "Hypocrisy in Worship")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 21:27 serves as a timeless and convicting mirror for all who claim to worship God. It compels us to rigorously and honestly examine the motives behind our spiritual disciplines and religious practices. Are our prayers, our financial giving, our church attendance, our acts of service, and even our diligent study of Scripture truly flowing from a heart genuinely devoted to God, seeking His righteousness and glory alone? Or are they perhaps merely outward performances, perhaps to maintain an image, fulfill a perceived duty, or even to manipulate outcomes, without genuine repentance, sincere faith, or a true desire for spiritual transformation? This proverb challenges us to move beyond superficial religiosity to a profound and radical authenticity, reminding us that God sees not just what we do, but critically, why we do it. Our worship and service are truly acceptable to God only when they originate from a sincere, contrite, and upright heart, aligned with His holy will and character.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my spiritual life might I be performing religious duties without genuine heart engagement or pure motives?**
* **How can I actively cultivate a heart that is truly sincere, contrite, and righteous in all my interactions with God and others?**
* **What does "wicked mind" mean for me personally, and how might it subtly manifest in my own thoughts or intentions during worship or acts of service?**
* **How does understanding God's profound view of hypocrisy impact my personal desire for deeper integrity and authenticity in my faith?**

### FAQ

**What does "the sacrifice of the wicked is abomination" truly mean?**

Answer: This phrase means that any religious offering or act of worship performed by someone whose life is characterized by unrighteousness, active rebellion against God's commands, or a persistent pattern of sin, is not only rejected by God but is considered utterly detestable, repugnant, and offensive to Him. It's not the ritual itself that is inherently flawed, but the heart and life of the one offering it. God values righteousness, sincerity, and obedience over mere external religious performance.

**Why is it "how much more, when he bringeth it with a wicked mind?"**

Answer: This part of the proverb intensifies the initial statement dramatically. If a wicked person's sacrifice is already an abomination, it becomes exponentially more offensive when that person brings the offering with deliberate evil intent, malicious thoughts, or a heart full of corrupt schemes and premeditated sin. It highlights the profound hypocrisy and spiritual insult involved when religious acts are used as a cover for sin, a means to manipulate, or are performed out of a heart that is actively plotting evil. It underscores God's omniscience and His penetrating judgment of the heart's true, hidden condition.

**Does this mean God rejects all prayers or acts of worship from non-believers or those struggling with sin?**

Answer: This proverb specifically addresses the "wicked," implying those who are unrepentant, actively living in defiance of God's revealed will, and whose religious acts are a facade for their ongoing sin. While God certainly desires genuine repentance and transformation from all people, the Bible also shows instances where God hears the cries of those who are not yet fully committed to Him, particularly if those cries are a genuine plea for help, mercy, or a sincere seeking of truth (e.g., [Acts 10:4](/acts/10-4 "Acts 10:4 - Cornelius' Prayers and Alms Remembered")). The key distinction lies in the heart's intent: is it a deceptive act by one committed to wickedness, or a genuine cry from one seeking God, even if imperfectly? God always welcomes a truly contrite heart.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 21:27, with its stark condemnation of hypocritical worship and emphasis on the heart's disposition, finds its ultimate fulfillment and profound resolution in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The Old Testament sacrificial system, though divinely instituted, was always a shadow pointing to the perfect, singular, and final sacrifice of Christ (e.g., [Hebrews 10:1-10](/hebrews/10-1-10 "Hebrews 10:1-10 - Christ's Perfect Sacrifice")). Unlike the sacrifices of the wicked, which were an abomination due to the impurity of the offerer, Christ's sacrifice was offered by the sinless Lamb of God (e.g., [John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")), making it perfectly acceptable, efficacious, and eternally pleasing to God. Furthermore, Jesus consistently exposed and vehemently condemned the hypocrisy of the religious leaders of His day, who performed outward acts of piety while their hearts were far from God, likening them to whitewashed tombs (e.g., [Matthew 23:27-28](/matthew/23-27-28 "Matthew 23:27-28 - Woes to the Scribes and Pharisees")). He taught that true worship must transcend mere ritual and be offered "in spirit and in truth" (e.g., [John 4:23-24](/john/4-23-24 "John 4:23-24 - Worship in Spirit and Truth")), emphasizing the internal reality of a transformed heart over external performance. Through Christ, we who were once wicked are cleansed from our sins, and our worship, offered through Him and by the power of His Spirit, becomes a "spiritual sacrifice acceptable to God through Jesus Christ" (e.g., [1 Peter 2:5](/1_peter/2-5 "1 Peter 2:5 - Living Stones and Holy Priesthood")). Thus, the problem of the "wicked mind" is ultimately addressed by the transforming power of the Holy Spirit, who renews our hearts and enables us to offer genuine, Christ-centered worship that truly honors God.

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

Isaiah 66:3

He that killeth an ox [is as if] he slew a man; he that sacrificeth a lamb, [as if] he cut off a dog's neck; he that offereth an oblation, [as if he offered] swine's blood; he that burneth incense, [as if] he blessed an idol. Yea, they have chosen their own ways, and their soul delighteth in their abominations.

Proverbs 15:8

¶ The sacrifice of the wicked [is] an abomination to the LORD: but the prayer of the upright [is] his delight.

Jeremiah 6:20

To what purpose cometh there to me incense from Sheba, and the sweet cane from a far country? your burnt offerings [are] not acceptable, nor your sacrifices sweet unto me.

Matthew 23:13

¶ But woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye shut up the kingdom of heaven against men: for ye neither go in [yourselves], neither suffer ye them that are entering to go in.

1 Samuel 15:21

But the people took of the spoil, sheep and oxen, the chief of the things which should have been utterly destroyed, to sacrifice unto the LORD thy God in Gilgal.

1 Samuel 15:23

For rebellion [is as] the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness [is as] iniquity and idolatry. Because thou hast rejected the word of the LORD, he hath also rejected thee from [being] king.

Psalms 50:8

I will not reprove thee for thy sacrifices or thy burnt offerings, [to have been] continually before me.