“These also are sayings of the wise. To show partiality in judgment is not good.” (Proverbs 24:23). This proverb begins with the phrase “These also are sayings of the wise” (v.23), indicating that it belongs to a collection of instructions intended to guide God’s people toward a life of discernment and righteousness. The second half of the verse, “To show partiality in judgment is not good” (v.23), underscores the importance of fair and unbiased decisions, whether in legal, personal, or community matters. There is no direct mention of specific geographical locations or individuals in this verse. Instead, the focus centers on an internal quality of justice that should be practiced universally.
The Hebrew people, living largely within the kingdoms of ancient Israel and Judah, were surrounded by various cultures and nations, yet they strove to maintain divine standards of integrity (Deuteronomy 16:18-19). This verse resonates with many teachings throughout the Bible that condemn partiality, including James 2:1, which warns believers not to hold their faith in Jesus Christ with an attitude of personal favoritism. Such instructions frame the broader, unchanging principle that God’s justice demands impartiality (Romans 2:11), aligning with the character of Christ Himself, who ministered without favor to social status, background, or personal advantage.
When this proverb declares “To show partiality in judgment is not good” (v.23), it encourages believers to reflect on their own hearts, ensuring that personal biases do not distort their treatment of others. Jesus modeled this perfectly during His earthly ministry around AD 30-33, speaking the truth to people from every social stratum without bias or fear. In doing so, He embodied the righteous judgment that Proverbs calls for, an example all people are invited to follow.
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Proverbs 24:23 meaning
“These also are sayings of the wise. To show partiality in judgment is not good.” (Proverbs 24:23). This proverb begins with the phrase “These also are sayings of the wise” (v.23), indicating that it belongs to a collection of instructions intended to guide God’s people toward a life of discernment and righteousness. The second half of the verse, “To show partiality in judgment is not good” (v.23), underscores the importance of fair and unbiased decisions, whether in legal, personal, or community matters. There is no direct mention of specific geographical locations or individuals in this verse. Instead, the focus centers on an internal quality of justice that should be practiced universally.
The Hebrew people, living largely within the kingdoms of ancient Israel and Judah, were surrounded by various cultures and nations, yet they strove to maintain divine standards of integrity (Deuteronomy 16:18-19). This verse resonates with many teachings throughout the Bible that condemn partiality, including James 2:1, which warns believers not to hold their faith in Jesus Christ with an attitude of personal favoritism. Such instructions frame the broader, unchanging principle that God’s justice demands impartiality (Romans 2:11), aligning with the character of Christ Himself, who ministered without favor to social status, background, or personal advantage.
When this proverb declares “To show partiality in judgment is not good” (v.23), it encourages believers to reflect on their own hearts, ensuring that personal biases do not distort their treatment of others. Jesus modeled this perfectly during His earthly ministry around AD 30-33, speaking the truth to people from every social stratum without bias or fear. In doing so, He embodied the righteous judgment that Proverbs calls for, an example all people are invited to follow.