Proverbs 19:5

5 A false witness shall not be unpunished, and he that accuses unjustly shall not escape.

Proverbs 19:5 Meaning and Commentary

Proverbs 19:5

A false witness shall not be unpunished
He that bears false witness against his neighbour in an open court of judicature; though be may not be detected by men, and so escape the punishment due to such offenders by the laws of God and men; yet God, who knows all hearts and actions, will not suffer him to go with impunity; if not punished in this world, he shall be in the world to come; for bearing false witness, or perjury, is a grievous offence to God; and [he that] speaketh lies shall not escape;
even he that useth himself to lying in private conversation shall not escape the reproach of men; for nothing is more scandalous than lying; nor the wrath of God, such shall have their portion in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone, ( Revelation 21:8 ) .

Proverbs 19:5 In-Context

3 The folly of a man spoils his ways: and he blames God in his heart.
4 Wealth acquires many friends; but the poor is deserted even of the friend he has.
5 A false witness shall not be unpunished, and he that accuses unjustly shall not escape.
6 Many court the favour of kings; but every bad man becomes a reproach to man.
7 Every one who hates poor brother shall also be far from friendship. Good understanding will draw near to them that know it, and a sensible man will find it. He that does much harm perfects mischief; and he that used provoking words shall not escape.

The Brenton translation of the Septuagint is in the public domain.