Proverbs 31:9

9 Speak out, judge fairly, and defend the rights of oppressed and needy people."

Proverbs 31:9 Meaning and Commentary

Proverbs 31:9

Open thy mouth, judge righteously
Having heard the cause, pronounce a righteous sentence; deliver it freely and impartially, with all readiness and boldness, not caring for the censures of wicked and unjust men; and plead the cause of the poor and needy;
who are oppressed by the rich, cannot plead for themselves, nor fee others to plead for them; do thou do it freely and faithfully. Thus as Lemuel's mother cautions him against women and wine, she advises him to do the duties of his office in administering impartial justice to all, and particularly in being the advocate and judge of the indigent and distressed.

Proverbs 31:9 In-Context

7 Such a person drinks and forgets his poverty and does not remember his trouble anymore.
8 "Speak out for the one who cannot speak, for the rights of those who are doomed.
9 Speak out, judge fairly, and defend the rights of oppressed and needy people."
10 "Who can find a wife with a strong character? She is worth far more than jewels.
11 Her husband trusts her with [all] his heart, and he does not lack anything good.
GOD'S WORD® is a copyrighted work of God's Word to the Nations. Copyright © 1995 by God's Word to the Nations. All rights reserved. Used by permission.