Proverbs 20:23

23 1Differing weights are an abomination to the LORD, And a 2false scale is not good.

Proverbs 20:23 Meaning and Commentary

Proverbs 20:23

Divers weights [are] an abomination unto the Lord
(See Gill on Proverbs 20:10); which is here repeated for the further confirmation of it, and that it might be taken notice of and avoided; and perhaps this sin of using false weights and measures was common with the Jews; and a false balance [is] not good;
in the sight of God; but an abomination, as in ( Proverbs 11:1 ) ; nor is it good for men in the issue; for though they may gain by it at present, it will prove a loss to them in the end, since it will bring a curse on all they get.

Proverbs 20:23 In-Context

21 An inheritance gained hurriedly at the beginning Will not be blessed in the end.
22 Do not say, "I will repay evil "; Wait for the LORD , and He will save you.
23 Differing weights are an abomination to the LORD , And a false scale is not good.
24 Man's steps are ordained by the LORD , How then can man understand his way?
25 It is a trap for a man to say rashly, "It is holy!" And after the vows to make inquiry.

Cross References 2

Footnotes 2

  • [a]. Lit "A stone and a stone"
  • [b]. Lit "balance of deceit"
New American Standard Bible Copyright © 1960, 1962, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, La Habra, California.  All rights reserved.