Topical Bible: Presents were Given: To Judges to Secure a Favourable Hearing

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In the ancient Near Eastern context, the practice of giving presents or gifts to judges to secure a favorable hearing was not uncommon. This practice is addressed in the Bible, where it is often condemned as a form of bribery that perverts justice and undermines the integrity of judicial proceedings.

Biblical Condemnation of Bribery

The Bible explicitly condemns the giving and receiving of bribes, particularly in the context of judicial proceedings. In Exodus 23:8, the Lord commands, "Do not accept a bribe, for a bribe blinds those who see and twists the words of the righteous" . This verse highlights the corrupting influence of bribes, which can distort justice and lead to unfair outcomes.

Similarly, Deuteronomy 16:19 warns, "Do not pervert justice or show partiality. Do not accept a bribe, for a bribe blinds the eyes of the wise and twists the words of the innocent" . Here, the emphasis is on the impartiality required of judges and the detrimental effects of accepting gifts intended to sway their decisions.

Historical Context and Examples

In the historical context of Israel, the giving of presents to judges was a temptation that could lead to the perversion of justice. The prophet Samuel's sons, Joel and Abijah, are noted for their corruption in 1 Samuel 8:3: "But his sons did not walk in his ways; they turned aside after dishonest gain, accepted bribes, and perverted justice" . This example illustrates how the acceptance of gifts could lead to a departure from righteous judgment.

The prophet Isaiah also speaks against the leaders of his time, who were guilty of accepting bribes. In Isaiah 1:23, he declares, "Your rulers are rebels, friends of thieves. They all love bribes and chase after gifts. They do not defend the cause of the fatherless, and the widow’s case does not come before them" . This indictment underscores the societal impact of corrupt leadership, where the vulnerable are neglected due to the leaders' greed.

Moral and Ethical Implications

From a moral and ethical standpoint, the Bible's stance against bribery in judicial settings underscores the importance of justice, fairness, and integrity. Judges are called to be impartial and to render decisions based on truth and righteousness, without being influenced by personal gain. Proverbs 17:23 states, "A wicked man takes a covert bribe to subvert the course of justice" , highlighting the wickedness associated with such actions.

The biblical narrative consistently upholds the principle that justice should be administered without partiality or corruption. The giving of presents to judges, with the intent of securing a favorable hearing, is portrayed as an affront to God's standards of justice and righteousness.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Proverbs 17:23
A wicked man takes a gift out of the bosom to pervert the ways of judgment.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Amos 2:6
Thus said the LORD; For three transgressions of Israel, and for four, I will not turn away the punishment thereof; because they sold the righteous for silver, and the poor for a pair of shoes;
Torrey's Topical Textbook

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