Proverbs 21:27

27 1The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination; how much more 2when he brings it with evil intent.

Proverbs 21:27 Meaning and Commentary

Proverbs 21:27

The sacrifice of the wicked [is] abomination
That is, to the Lord, as in ( Proverbs 15:8 ) ; and as it is here added in the Septuagint and Arabic versions; how much more, [when] he bringeth it with a wicked mind?
the Arabic version is, "with a mind alien from the law"; or when it is not brought according to law; when it is a corrupt thing, that which is torn, lame, or sick, or robbery for burnt sacrifice; when it is done with an evil intention, to cover sin, to atone for without repenting of it or forsaking it; that they may go on in sin with impunity, and be allowed to commit it; for which cause Balak and Balsam offered sacrifices, which is the instance Jarchi produces; and indeed every religious action not done in faith, and love, and sincerity, and with a view to the glory of God, but in hypocrisy and with selfish views, in order to procure acceptance with God and justification in his sight; setting aside the righteousness, sacrifice, and satisfaction of the son of God, is done with a wicked mind, and is an abomination to the Lord. Some render it, "even though he brings it diligently", or "with great art and skill" F9; is constant at his devotion, and carries it so artfully, and with such a show of religion, as to deceive men, yet he cannot deceive the Lord.


FOOTNOTES:

F9 (hmzb) "solerter", De Dieu.

Proverbs 21:27 In-Context

25 The desire of the sluggard kills him, for his hands refuse to labor.
26 All day long he craves and craves, but the righteous gives and does not hold back.
27 The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination; how much more when he brings it with evil intent.
28 A false witness will perish, but the word of a man who hears will endure.
29 A wicked man puts on a bold face, but the upright gives thought to his ways.

Cross References 2

  • 1. Isaiah 66:3; See Proverbs 15:8
  • 2. [Proverbs 24:9]
The English Standard Version is published with the permission of Good News Publishers.