Partiality can compromise integrity for even the smallest reward.
To show partiality is not good, Because for a piece of bread a man will transgress. (v.21) This admonition, recorded among the collections of wise sayings in Proverbs, highlights the moral danger of favoritism. It suggests that partiality can undermine justice and integrity to the point where even a small bribe—represented as “a piece of bread”—can lead a person astray. Though credited mostly to King Solomon, who reigned from 970-931 BC, the Book of Proverbs was gathered from various sources as short, practical lessons on living a life that honors God. Solomon’s kingdom was located in ancient Israel, a region bordered by the Mediterranean Sea on the west and vast desert terrain to the south and east, underscoring the unique cultural environment in which these sayings emerged.
When this verse says, Because for a piece of bread a man will transgress, (v.21) it depicts how easily one’s moral judgment can be bought if the heart is set on personal gain rather than righteousness. This teaching is echoed in the New Testament, which warns believers not to show favoritism toward the wealthy or powerful (James 2:1). Caring about appearances or social advantages can quickly tempt individuals into breaking their ethical standards, betraying the impartial justice that God desires.
In practical terms, To show partiality is not good (v.21) reminds us that our choices should reflect fairness and righteousness. When believers show favoritism, they may disregard Christ’s call to love all people equally and impartially (John 13:34). By treating everyone with the same dignity, we align with God’s heart of justice and avoid the moral pitfalls that arise from seeking advantage at others’ expense.
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Proverbs 28:21 meaning
To show partiality is not good, Because for a piece of bread a man will transgress. (v.21) This admonition, recorded among the collections of wise sayings in Proverbs, highlights the moral danger of favoritism. It suggests that partiality can undermine justice and integrity to the point where even a small bribe—represented as “a piece of bread”—can lead a person astray. Though credited mostly to King Solomon, who reigned from 970-931 BC, the Book of Proverbs was gathered from various sources as short, practical lessons on living a life that honors God. Solomon’s kingdom was located in ancient Israel, a region bordered by the Mediterranean Sea on the west and vast desert terrain to the south and east, underscoring the unique cultural environment in which these sayings emerged.
When this verse says, Because for a piece of bread a man will transgress, (v.21) it depicts how easily one’s moral judgment can be bought if the heart is set on personal gain rather than righteousness. This teaching is echoed in the New Testament, which warns believers not to show favoritism toward the wealthy or powerful (James 2:1). Caring about appearances or social advantages can quickly tempt individuals into breaking their ethical standards, betraying the impartial justice that God desires.
In practical terms, To show partiality is not good (v.21) reminds us that our choices should reflect fairness and righteousness. When believers show favoritism, they may disregard Christ’s call to love all people equally and impartially (John 13:34). By treating everyone with the same dignity, we align with God’s heart of justice and avoid the moral pitfalls that arise from seeking advantage at others’ expense.