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.
Deuteronomy 16:19
This verse sharpens the integrity of the legal system. The prohibition against “wresting judgment,” favoritism, and accepting bribes addresses common human temptations: bending truth for a friend, wealth, or status. In the ancient Near Eastern world, justice could be bought or influenced by social power. Deuteronomy counters that with a radical insistence on equal treatment: “thou shalt not respect persons” and “neither take a gift.” The image that a gift “blindeth the eyes of the wise” captures the corrupting power of bribes—minds become clouded, discernment dims, and the righteous are swayed. Scripture here ties moral erosion to economic and social leverage, reminding Israelites that genuine justice requires both discernment and virtue.
Historically, the law’s insistence on impartiality would have protected marginalized groups—widows, orphans, foreigners—whose voices often stood at risk in gate courts. The prohibition on gifts underscores the ethic of communal trust: justice must be for all, not for those who can pay.
Justice grounded in equality before God is a foundational biblical theme. God’s own nature is impartial and just. When human leaders tilt toward the powerful, they distort God’s image in the courtroom. The passage elevates integrity as a spiritual discipline—one that requires refusal of personal enrichment at the expense of truth. It also foreshadows the biblical critique of favoritism, later echoed in the teachings of Jesus (e.g., not showing partiality in judgment). Justice is not a neutral act; it is a sacred trust aligning human decisions with God’s standard of righteousness.
Apply this by examining how you judge others in everyday life: Are you quick to believe a friend’s side without evidence? Do you rely on money or status to influence outcomes? In workplaces, cultivate objective evaluation criteria—performance metrics, peer reviews, and transparent promotions. In communities, resist cliques that push decisions toward favored ones. Practice humility: admit when you’re biased and seek counsel from diverse voices. If you’re in a position of influence, implement anti-corruption measures—conflicts of interest policies, anonymous reporting, and third-party oversight. This verse invites us to embody justice that transcends personal interest, ensuring fairness for the vulnerable and the marginalized.
Cross-References: Leviticus 19:15; Exodus 23:3; Proverbs 28:21; Amos 5:24; James 2:9