What does the Bible say about bribery?

Definition and Significance

Bribery, in a broad biblical sense, refers to giving or receiving something of value as a corrupt inducement to pervert justice, morality, or honest judgment. Scriptural teaching repeatedly portrays bribery as a destructive practice that undermines fairness, pollutes righteous decision-making, and blinds those who should see truth.

Old Testament Foundations

Throughout the Old Testament, the Law of Moses condemns bribery as an offense that distorts justice and subverts the proper order established by God.

• Exodus 23:8 states, “Do not accept a bribe, for a bribe blinds those who see…”

• Deuteronomy 16:19 warns, “Do not pervert justice; do not show partiality or take a bribe…”

These admonitions highlight how bribes can warp moral clarity and hinder a community’s pursuit of righteousness. The Hebrew term often found in passages on bribery denotes a “gift” that corrupts or perverts, which clarifies that Scripture does not condemn all gifts but specifically the kind meant to influence or buy favor in a deceitful way.

Judicial and Leadership Context

Many warnings about bribery in the Old Testament appear in contexts addressing judges, kings, and leaders who were entrusted with the responsibility of impartial decision-making.

• 2 Chronicles 19:7 underscores that the Lord “shows no partiality or takes a bribe.”

Because human leaders are meant to reflect God’s justice, the use of bribery breaks the design of upright governance, leading to damaged trust and societal collapse.

Wisdom Literature Insights

The Book of Proverbs contains multiple cautions about bribery. Such verses highlight both the destructive personal consequences and the broader community impact:

• Proverbs 17:23 explains, “A wicked man takes a bribe in secret to subvert justice.”

• Proverbs 15:27 states, “He who is greedy for unjust gain brings trouble on his household…”

These sayings reveal that bribery does not merely harm the one bribed or the briber—it also spreads corruption that tarnishes entire communities and families.

Heart Attitude and Moral Implications

Biblically, bribery is not just an external action but also a reflection of an internal heart disposition toward self-gain at the expense of truth. In the Psalms, those who engage in such acts are contrasted with people of integrity:

• Psalm 15:5 notes that the one who “does not accept a bribe against the innocent” will never be shaken.

By extolling honesty, Scripture shows that refusing bribery is an outflow of fearing God and valuing His righteousness over personal advantage.

New Testament Perspective

Although the New Testament does not feature as many direct statements about bribery, the principle remains consistent: believers are called to sincerity, fairness, and impartiality, reflecting God’s character.

• Acts 8:18–20 recounts Simon the Sorcerer offering money to buy the power of the Holy Spirit, illustrating the folly of attempting to purchase spiritual blessings.

This episode exemplifies that bribery, in any form, dishonors God and cheapens what is holy, reinforcing the call to pure motives and sincere devotion.

Historical and Cultural Context

Archaeological findings in ancient Near Eastern sites indicate that legal systems of surrounding nations also sought to prohibit bribery in court settings. Codes from neighboring cultures echo certain prohibitions, yet Scripture’s specific call for holiness sets it apart in showing that bribery is not only a societal wrongdoing but a profound spiritual offense.

In the biblical narrative, corrupt practices—whether in civil administration or religious affairs—are likened to defiance of God’s holy order. Ancient historical records reveal parallels in frequent condemnation of gifts meant to sway judges. This history supports the idea that Israel’s laws on bribery were both culturally relevant and theologically unique, grounding moral behavior in God’s character.

Consequences and Warnings

The Bible repeatedly warns that bribery leads to perversion of justice, confusion of right and wrong, and communal decay. The moral foundation of society suffers when truth and fair treatment are sold for personal gain. Individuals who take bribes often face divine judgment, as they stand in direct opposition to God’s heart for righteousness and equitable treatment.

Practical Principles for Today

1. Promote Justice: Uphold fairness in personal, professional, and governmental contexts.

2. Guard Integrity: Resist any temptation to gain advantage through unethical means.

3. Honor God’s Character: Reflect God’s impartiality by speaking and acting truthfully, even when it is costly.

4. Highlight Transparency: Cultivate accountability in organizations, churches, and governments to discourage hidden deals and unjust transactions.

Encouragement for Righteous Conduct

Those who reject bribery and value honesty align themselves with God’s standard of justice. This distinction sets believers apart as people who trust divine provision rather than resort to corrupt means. By championing truth, believers impart a testimony that glorifies God and promotes the welfare of neighbors.

Conclusion

From Genesis to Revelation, Scripture opposes every form of bribery, teaching that God’s people are called to embody integrity and show no partiality. Bribery is portrayed as leading to moral and social decay, while refusing bribes is a mark of true righteousness and devotion to God. When individuals, families, and communities practice fairness free from corruption, they reflect the justice and holiness of the One who never accepts a bribe and whose standards remain unwavering.