Proverbs 28:21

21 Prejudice is wrong. But some judges will do wrong to get even the smallest bribe.

Proverbs 28:21 Meaning and Commentary

Proverbs 28:21

To have respect of persons [is] not good, &c,
In courts of judicature, to give a cause or pass sentence in favour of a person, because he is rich, or is a relation, a friend, an acquaintance, or has done a kindness; and against another, because of the reverse, ( Leviticus 19:15 ) ( Deuteronomy 16:19 ) ; nor in religious assemblies, making a difference between the rich and the poor, ( James 2:1 James 2:2 ) ; this is not good in itself, nor productive of good effects, and cannot be well pleasing to God, who himself is no respecter of persons; for for a piece of bread [that] man will transgress;
the laws of God and men; having used himself to such unrighteous methods of proceeding, he will do any base action for a small gain, he will stick at nothing, and do it for anything; as Cato used to say of M. Coelius the tribune,

``that he might be hired, for a morsel of bread, to speak or hold his peace;''
see ( Ezekiel 13:19 ) .

Proverbs 28:21 In-Context

19 A hard-working farmer has plenty to eat. People who waste time will always be poor.
20 Honest people will lead a full, happy life. But if you are in a hurry to get rich, you are going to be punished.
21 Prejudice is wrong. But some judges will do wrong to get even the smallest bribe.
22 Selfish people are in such a hurry to get rich that they do not know when poverty is about to strike.
23 Correct someone, and afterward he will appreciate it more than flattery.
Scripture taken from the Good News Translation - Second Edition, Copyright 1992 by American Bible Society. Used by Permission.