TRV
Study This Verse
Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Proverbs 24:23–26.
Here are lessons for wise men, that is, judges and princes. As subjects must do their duty, and be obedient to magistrates, so magistrates must do their duty in administering justice to their subjects, both in pleas of the crown and causes between party and party. These are lessons for them. 1. They must always weigh the merits of a cause, and not be swayed by any regard, one way or other, to the parties concerned: It is not good in itself, nor can it ever do well, to have respect of persons in judgment; the consequences of it cannot but be the perverting of justice and doing wrong under colour of law and equity. A good judge will know the truth, not know faces, so as to countenance a friend and help him out in a bad cause, or so much as omit any thing that can be said or done in favour of a righteous cause, when it is the cause of an enemy. 2. They must never connive at or encourage wicked people in their wicked practices. Magistrates in their places, and ministers in theirs, are to deal faithfully and the wicked man, though he be a great man or a particular friend, to convict him of his wickedness, to show him what will be in the end thereof, to discover him to others, that they may avoid him. But if those whose office it is thus to show people their transgressions palliate them and connive at them, if they excuse the wicked man, much more if they prefer him and associate with him (which is, in effect, to say, Thou art righteous), they shall justly be looked upon as enemies to the public peace and welfare, which they ought to advance, and the people shall curse them and cry out shame on them; and even those of other nations shall abhor them, as base betrayers of their trust. 3. They must discountenance and give check to all fraud, violence, injustice, and immorality; and, though thereby they may disoblige a particular person, yet they will recommend themselves to the favour of God and man. Let magistrates and ministers, and private persons too that are capable of doing it, rebuke the wicked, that they may bring them to repentance or put them to shame, and they shall have the comfort of it in their own bosoms: To them shall be delight, when their consciences witness for them that they have been witnesses for God; and a good blessing shall come upon them, the blessing of God and good men; they shall be deemed religion's patrons and their country's patriots. See Pro 28:23. 4. They must always give judgment according to equity (Pro 24:26); they must give a right answer, that is, give their opinion and pass sentence according to law and them true merits of the cause; and every one shall kiss his lips that does so, that is, shall love and honour him, and be subject to his orders, for there is a kiss of allegiance as well as of affection. He that in common conversation likewise speaks pertinently and with sincerity recommends himself to his company and is beloved and respected by all.
Historical interpretation
Historical Reception
2 surviving comments on this verse. Each one is dated, so this reads as a timeline rather than a list.
These things also to the wise. It is understood, are unknown, when each of the reprobates is suddenly snatched from the world by destruction. Or these things also are to be observed by the wise, which I have taught, not to be mingled with the detractors; because by this particular vice almost the whole human race is endangered. Hence, wishing to remedy this same vice, blessed Father Augustine had these verses inscribed on his table: Whoever loves to slander the life of an absent person with words, let him know that he is unworthy of this table. This verse is more clearly stated in the ancient edition: I say this to you who understand wisdom, for it can not incongruously be the principle of the following sentences.
To recognize a person in judgment is not good. He taught above to fear the king, and now forbids recognizing a person in judgment. Whence it is understood that subjects ought to render the debt of temporal obedience to princes, so that never out of respect for their reverence or fear they deviate from the path of truth.
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Summary
Proverbs 24:23 introduces a foundational ethical principle for those who possess true wisdom: the absolute necessity of impartiality in all forms of judgment and decision-making. This proverb asserts that a discerning individual's character is marked not merely by intellectual capacity but by the consistent practice of fairness, unswayed by personal bias, social standing, or external pressures. It is a critical statement highlighting that favoritism undermines justice and stands in direct opposition to the very nature of the wise.
Context
Literary Context
This verse serves as a crucial introductory heading for a distinct collection of "further sayings of the wise" (Proverbs 24:23-34). While the book of Proverbs contains various sections, this particular grouping, beginning with our verse, emphasizes practical ethical conduct, especially in public and judicial spheres. It immediately sets a high moral and ethical standard for those who claim to embody wisdom, particularly concerning the administration of justice. The proverb reinforces the overarching purpose of the book, which consistently portrays true wisdom not as abstract knowledge but as demonstrated through righteous moral conduct and discernment in daily life, especially within interpersonal and societal interactions. The subsequent proverbs in this section frequently elaborate on themes of justice, diligence, and the inevitable consequences of moral choices, positioning this opening statement as a fitting ethical cornerstone.
Historical & Cultural Context
In ancient Israel, "judgment" (Hebrew: mishpâṭ) was an integral and pervasive aspect of community life, extending beyond formal courtrooms to encompass all decisions affecting individuals and society. Elders, judges, and sometimes the king rendered verdicts at the city gate, addressing matters ranging from property disputes and criminal accusations to family issues and commercial agreements. The integrity of this judicial process was paramount for maintaining social order and reflecting the character of Yahweh, who is inherently just and righteous. Showing "respect of persons" (nâkar pânîym or nasa' panim) meant exhibiting partiality or favoritism based on a person's wealth, social status, tribal affiliation, or personal connections, rather than on the objective merits of their case. Such practices were explicitly forbidden in Mosaic Law, as seen in passages like Deuteronomy 1:17 and Leviticus 19:15, underscoring their detrimental impact on a just society and their offense to a holy God. This proverb, therefore, functioned as a vital ethical guideline for anyone in a position of authority or influence within the community.
Key Themes
Proverbs 24:23 contributes significantly to several core themes found throughout the book of Proverbs and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it champions Impartiality in Judgment, asserting that fairness is non-negotiable for the wise. This theme deeply resonates with God's own character, as He is consistently portrayed as one who shows no partiality (Romans 2:11). Secondly, the verse tightly links this impartiality to True Wisdom and Righteousness. Genuine wisdom, as depicted in Proverbs, is not merely intellectual but ethical; it is demonstrated through actions that uphold justice and righteousness, distinguishing the wise from the foolish who act out of self-interest or bias. The ability to judge fairly is a hallmark of godly wisdom, as exemplified by Solomon's prayer for discernment in 1 Kings 3:9. Finally, the proverb implicitly addresses Societal Harmony and Stability. A society where justice is corrupted by favoritism inevitably breeds resentment, conflict, and instability. Conversely, the consistent application of impartial judgment fosters trust, promotes equity, and strengthens the social fabric, reflecting the desired order of God's kingdom.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This term (H2450) refers to an individual who is intelligent, skillful, and artful, possessing practical wisdom that enables them to navigate life effectively and make sound judgments. In Proverbs, châkâm encompasses not only intellectual capacity but also moral discernment and the ability to live righteously. The proverb asserts that the principle of impartiality is a characteristic "belonging to" or inherent in the nature of such a wise person, distinguishing them from those who lack true wisdom.
This word (H2896) is broad in meaning, encompassing what is beautiful, pleasant, beneficial, or morally upright. Here, stating "it is not good" (lo-ṭôwb) to show partiality in judgment emphasizes its moral deficiency and negative consequences. It is not merely inconvenient or inefficient, but fundamentally wrong and harmful to individuals and society, indicating a deviation from what is right and beneficial in God's eyes.
This primitive root (H5234) properly means "to scrutinize" or "look intently at," and by extension, "to acknowledge," "care for," or "revere." In this context, combined with pânîym, it takes on the negative connotation of showing preferential regard or undue attention to someone's "face" or outward appearance/status, rather than the objective facts of a case. It implies a biased recognition that distorts the integrity of justice.
This plural noun (H6440) literally means "face," but is used in a vast variety of applications, including "presence," "countenance," or "person." When combined with nâkar (or nasa'), "respect of persons" refers to judging based on who a person is (their "face" or outward identity/status) rather than on what they have done, the merits of their argument, or the objective truth of the situation. It highlights the danger of allowing external factors to influence internal discernment.
This term (H4941) is rich, signifying a verdict, a sentence, a formal decree, or divine/human law. It also encompasses the act of judging, the place of judgment, and abstractly, justice itself. The proverb specifically targets the act of rendering a verdict or making a decision where impartiality is critical, underscoring that the integrity of mishpâṭ is severely compromised by personal bias and favoritism.
Verse Breakdown
"These [things] also [belong] to the wise."
This opening clause serves as an introductory heading for the subsequent proverb, much like a title or a preface. It declares that the ethical principle that follows is characteristic of, or an inherent part of, the wisdom that the book of Proverbs seeks to impart. It sets the expectation that what is about to be stated is a fundamental truth for those who are truly discerning, righteous, and aligned with God's moral order.
"[It is] not good to have respect of persons in judgment."
This is the core ethical statement and the central prohibition of the proverb. The phrase "not good" (Hebrew: lo-ṭôwb) is a strong condemnation, indicating that showing partiality or favoritism in any decision-making process is morally wrong, detrimental, and contrary to divine wisdom. "Respect of persons" refers to evaluating or treating individuals based on their external attributes (such as wealth, status, appearance, or connections) rather than on their intrinsic worth, the objective facts of a situation, or the universal principles of justice. This applies not only to formal legal settings but also to any situation requiring discernment and fair dealing in daily life.
Literary Devices
Proverbs 24:23 primarily functions as an Aphorism, a concise, self-contained statement of truth or principle, designed to be memorable and instructive. It presents a clear Ethical Imperative, directly stating what is morally "not good" and implicitly commanding its avoidance. While not a direct Antithesis in its phrasing, the proverb implies a strong contrast: the wise person does not show partiality, thereby suggesting that the foolish or wicked do. This highlights the characteristic behavior that distinguishes the wise from the unwise. The very concept of "wisdom" throughout Proverbs often takes on a near-Personification, acting as a guide and embodying righteous principles, and here, impartiality is presented as one of its defining and essential attributes.
Theological and Thematic Connections
The principle of impartiality in judgment is deeply woven into the fabric of biblical theology, reflecting the very character of God. From the Mosaic Law to the teachings of the prophets and apostles, God consistently demands that His people administer justice without favoritism, mirroring His own righteous and equitable nature. This command is not merely a legalistic requirement but a spiritual one, intended to cultivate a society that reflects divine order and righteousness. Partiality is seen as a perversion of justice, leading to oppression, corruption, and a breakdown of community, directly opposing God's desire for a just and flourishing society. The call to impartiality is thus a call to imitate God, who "shows no partiality and accepts no bribes," demonstrating His perfect justice and unwavering commitment to truth.
Reflection and Application
Proverbs 24:23 stands as a timeless challenge to every believer, urging us to embody the wisdom of God in our daily interactions and decisions. It calls us to a radical self-awareness, prompting us to examine our hearts for unconscious biases, prejudices, or inclinations to favor certain individuals or groups over others. Whether we are making decisions in a professional capacity, navigating family dynamics, engaging in community discussions, or simply forming opinions about others, this proverb demands that we operate with integrity, fairness, and an unwavering commitment to truth. Our commitment to impartiality is not just about avoiding injustice; it is about actively reflecting the character of a God who sees all people equally, values truth above status, and loves righteousness. By striving for impartiality, we contribute to building a more just and compassionate world, fostering environments where dignity is upheld, and trust can flourish, thereby demonstrating the transformative power of biblical wisdom in a fragmented world.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What does "respect of persons" specifically mean in the context of Proverbs 24:23?
In Proverbs 24:23, "respect of persons" refers to showing partiality or favoritism in judgment or decision-making. It means to evaluate or treat individuals based on their external attributes such as wealth, social status, family connections, appearance, or personal like/dislike, rather than on the objective facts of a situation, the merits of their case, or the principles of justice. The Hebrew phrase often translated this way (nasa' panim or as implied here by nâkar pânîym) literally means "to lift up the face" or "to show favor," indicating a biased regard for one person over another. It's a strong condemnation of any action that deviates from true equity and fairness, whether in a formal court setting or in everyday interactions.
Why is impartiality so important to God, as reflected in this proverb and other scriptures?
Impartiality is crucial to God because it directly reflects His righteous and just character. God Himself "shows no partiality and accepts no bribes" (Deuteronomy 10:17). When humans act with partiality, they distort justice, oppress the vulnerable, and create social instability, which is contrary to God's desire for a flourishing and orderly society. The Bible consistently teaches that true justice is blind to external distinctions and is based solely on truth and righteousness. Therefore, commanding impartiality is a call for humanity to emulate divine attributes and uphold the moral order of His creation, ensuring that all are treated with dignity and equity, reflecting the very nature of the Creator.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Proverbs 24:23, with its insistence on impartiality in judgment, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. While the Old Testament law commanded judges to show no partiality, only in Christ do we see perfect justice and absolute impartiality embodied. Jesus consistently demonstrated this principle throughout His earthly ministry, treating all people—regardless of their social standing, ethnicity, or past sins—with equal dignity and truth. He welcomed the outcast, dined with sinners, challenged the hypocrisy of the religious elite, and ministered to the marginalized, never swayed by outward appearance or human influence (Luke 15:1-2 and Matthew 23:1-36). Ultimately, Christ is revealed as the righteous Judge who will return to judge the living and the dead, and His judgment will be perfectly just and without partiality, based on truth and righteousness alone (John 5:22 and 2 Timothy 4:1). His sacrifice on the cross also demonstrates God's impartial love, offering salvation to all who believe, without respect of persons, for "there is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus" (Galatians 3:28). Thus, the wisdom of Proverbs 24:23 points forward to the perfect justice and impartiality found in our Lord, who not only commands it but perfectly exemplifies and enacts it, making true justice accessible through His redemptive work.