Proverbs 24:23

KJV

¶ These [things] also [belong] to the wise. [It is] not good to have respect of persons in judgment.

KJV (with Strong's)

These things also belong to the wise {H2450}. It is not good {H2896} to have respect {H5234} of persons {H6440} in judgment {H4941}.

Complete Jewish Bible

These also are sayings of the wise: Showing partiality in judgment is not good.

Berean Standard Bible

These also are sayings of the wise: To show partiality in judgment is not good.

American Standard Version

These also aresayingsof the wise. To have respect of persons in judgment is not good.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 24:23 encapsulates a profound principle essential to true wisdom: the imperative for absolute impartiality in all forms of judgment and decision-making. This proverb asserts that the mark of a truly discerning individual lies not merely in intellectual acumen but in the consistent practice of fairness, unswayed by personal bias, social status, or external pressures. It is a foundational ethical statement, highlighting that favoritism undermines justice and is antithetical to the character of the wise.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse introduces a distinct collection of "further sayings of the wise" (Proverbs 24:23-34), set apart from the earlier Solomonic proverbs (Proverbs 10:1-22:16) and the "sayings of the wise" (Proverbs 22:17-24:22). While distinct in attribution, these proverbs share the overarching purpose of the book of Proverbs: to impart practical wisdom for living a righteous life in accordance with God's will. Proverbs 24:23 functions as an introductory statement for this new section, immediately setting a high ethical standard for those who claim to possess wisdom, particularly in the realm of justice. It reinforces the book's consistent theme that true wisdom is not abstract knowledge but demonstrated through moral conduct and discernment, especially in interpersonal and societal interactions. The subsequent verses in this section often elaborate on themes of justice, diligence, and the consequences of moral choices, making this opening verse a fitting ethical cornerstone.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, "judgment" (Hebrew: `mishpâṭ`) was a pervasive and vital aspect of daily life, extending far beyond formal courtrooms. Decisions were often rendered at the city gate by elders, judges, or even the king, impacting everything from property disputes and criminal accusations to family matters 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" (`nasa' panim` or `nâkar pânîym`) meant showing partiality or favoritism based on a person's wealth, social standing, tribal affiliation, or personal connections, rather than on the merits of their case. Such practices were explicitly forbidden in Mosaic Law (e.g., [Deuteronomy 1:17](/deuteronomy/1-17 "Deuteronomy 1:17 - No Partiality in Judgment") and [Leviticus 19:15](/leviticus/19-15 "Leviticus 19:15 - Righteous Judgment Commanded")), underscoring their detrimental impact on a just society and their offense to a holy God. This proverb, therefore, served as a crucial 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 resonates with God's own character, as He is consistently portrayed as one who shows no partiality ([Romans 2:11](/romans/2-11 "Romans 2:11 - God's Impartiality")). 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 ([1 Kings 3:9](/1_kings/3-9 "1 Kings 3:9 - Solomon's Prayer for Wisdom to Judge")). 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
* **Wise (Hebrew, _châkâm'_):** This term (H2450) refers to one who is intelligent, skillful, and artful, possessing practical wisdom that enables them to navigate life effectively and make sound judgments. In Proverbs, `châkâm` is not just about intellectual capacity but encompasses 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.
* **Good (Hebrew, _ṭôwb'_):** 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.
* **Respect (Hebrew, _nâkar'_):** This primitive root (H5234) means "to scrutinize," "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 facts of a case. It implies a biased recognition that distorts justice.
* **Persons (Hebrew, _pânîym'_):** 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 or the merits of their argument.
* **Judgment (Hebrew, _mishpâṭ'_):** 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 compromised by personal bias.

#### 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. 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 and righteous.
* **"[It is] not good to have respect of persons in judgment."**: This is the core ethical statement. 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 and detrimental. "Respect of persons" refers to evaluating or treating individuals based on their external attributes (wealth, status, appearance, connections) rather than on their intrinsic worth, the facts of a situation, or the principles of justice. This applies to formal legal settings but also to any situation requiring discernment and fair dealing.

#### 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 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. 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 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" ([Deuteronomy 10:17](/deuteronomy/10-17 "Deuteronomy 10:17 - God's Impartiality and Justice")).

* [Deuteronomy 1:17](/deuteronomy/1-17 "Deuteronomy 1:17 - No Partiality in Judgment"): "Ye shall not respect persons in judgment; but ye shall hear the small as well as the great; ye shall not be afraid of the face of man; for the judgment is God's..."
* [Leviticus 19:15](/leviticus/19-15 "Leviticus 19:15 - Righteous Judgment Commanded"): "Ye shall do no unrighteousness in judgment: thou shalt not respect the person of the poor, nor honour the person of the mighty: but in righteousness shalt thou judge thy neighbour."
* [James 2:1-4](/james/2-1 "James 2:1-4 - Warning Against Partiality"): The apostle James strongly condemns showing favoritism, especially towards the rich, in the Christian assembly, calling it a violation of the "royal law" of love.

### 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
* **In what areas of my life might I be tempted to show "respect of persons," and what are the potential consequences of such partiality?**
* **How can I actively identify and challenge my own unconscious biases to ensure I am making fair and just decisions?**
* **What practical steps can I take today to cultivate a greater spirit of impartiality and fairness in my interactions with others?**

### FAQ
**What does "respect of persons" specifically mean in the context of Proverbs 24:23?**

Answer: 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 condemnation of any action that deviates from true equity and fairness.

**Why is impartiality so important to God, as reflected in this proverb and other scriptures?**

Answer: 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](/deuteronomy/10-17 "Deuteronomy 10:17 - God's Impartiality and Justice")). 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.

### 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](/luke/15-1 "Luke 15:1-2 - Jesus Eats with Sinners") and [Matthew 23:1-36](/matthew/23 "Matthew 23 - Jesus Denounces the Scribes and Pharisees")). 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](/john/5-22 "John 5:22 - The Father Judges No One, But Has Entrusted All Judgment to the Son") and [2 Timothy 4:1](/2_timothy/4-1 "2 Timothy 4:1 - Paul's Charge to Timothy")). 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](/galatians/3-28 "Galatians 3:28 - Unity in Christ")). 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.

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

Proverbs 28:21

¶ To have respect of persons [is] not good: for for a piece of bread [that] man will transgress.

Proverbs 18:5

¶ [It is] not good to accept the person of the wicked, to overthrow the righteous in judgment.

Psalms 107:43

Whoso [is] wise, and will observe these [things], even they shall understand the lovingkindness of the LORD.

Leviticus 19:15

Ye shall do no unrighteousness in judgment: thou shalt not respect the person of the poor, nor honour the person of the mighty: [but] in righteousness shalt thou judge thy neighbour.

1 Peter 1:17

And if ye call on the Father, who without respect of persons judgeth according to every man's work, pass the time of your sojourning [here] in fear:

Deuteronomy 1:17

Ye shall not respect persons in judgment; [but] ye shall hear the small as well as the great; ye shall not be afraid of the face of man; for the judgment [is] God's: and the cause that is too hard for you, bring [it] unto me, and I will hear it.

Deuteronomy 16:19

Thou shalt not wrest judgment; thou shalt not respect persons, neither take a gift: for a gift doth blind the eyes of the wise, and pervert the words of the righteous.