Proverbs 28:21

Proverbs 28:21 (KJV) delivers a sharp warning against the dangers of partiality and the ease with which integrity can be compromised for even small personal gain. The verse states that showing "respect of persons" – or favoritism – is inherently wrong, because it opens the door to corruption, where an individual might transgress justice for something as insignificant as "a piece of bread."

Context

This proverb is part of a larger collection of wisdom sayings in the book of Proverbs, which often contrasts the righteous with the wicked, emphasizing themes of justice, integrity, diligence, and the consequences of sin. Chapter 28, in particular, frequently highlights the behavior and outcomes of the upright versus the corrupt. The condemnation of "respect of persons" aligns with the broader biblical emphasis on righteous judgment and fairness, a cornerstone of God's law and a vital characteristic for leaders, judges, and indeed, all people in their dealings with one another.

Key Themes

• Impartiality vs. Partiality: The primary message is a strong condemnation of favoritism. God's standard is one of absolute fairness, where judgment is based on merit and truth, not on external factors like wealth, social status, or personal connections. Showing partiality distorts justice and undermines trust.
• Corruption and Compromise: The phrase "for for a piece of bread that man will transgress" vividly illustrates how easily principles can be abandoned. It suggests that even a small bribe, a slight advantage, or a minor personal benefit can lead someone to compromise their integrity and commit injustice. This highlights the insidious nature of corruption, which often begins with seemingly small concessions.
• Justice and Righteousness: Implicit in the warning is a call to uphold justice and righteousness. A society or individual that practices partiality cannot truly be just. This verse serves as a foundational principle for fair dealing in all aspects of life, from legal judgments to everyday interactions.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV phrase "respect of persons" translates the Hebrew idiom nasa panim (נָשָׂא פָּנִים), which literally means "to lift up the face." In this context, it signifies showing favor, preferential treatment, or partiality towards someone. It implies judging or treating people based on who they are (their status, wealth, or influence) rather than on the merits of their case or character. This concept is widely condemned throughout the Old Testament Law and prophetic writings, underscoring its gravity. The "piece of bread" serves as a powerful metaphor for a trivial gain or a small bribe, emphasizing that the willingness to transgress principles for such a meager reward is a profound moral failure.

Practical Application

The wisdom of Proverbs 28:21 remains profoundly relevant today:

• In Leadership and Authority: Those in positions of power, whether in government, business, or the church, are called to exercise their authority without favoritism. Deuteronomy 1:17 commands judges not to "respect persons in judgment."
• In Personal Relationships: We are challenged to treat all people with dignity and fairness, regardless of their background, status, or perceived importance. The New Testament echoes this principle, with James 2:9 stating that "if ye have respect to persons, ye commit sin."
• Maintaining Integrity: The verse serves as a stark reminder that even small temptations can lead to significant moral compromise. It cautions against rationalizing minor acts of injustice or accepting small "bribes" (whether financial or otherwise) that undermine one's ethical stance. True integrity means refusing to transgress for any gain, however small.
• Seeking Justice: This proverb encourages believers to advocate for justice and oppose all forms of partiality and discrimination, reflecting God's own character, who "accepteth no person" (Galatians 2:6).