Bible Commentary

Proverbs 17:23

Proverbs 17:23

Little Bible — for children and parents · Growth Figures · © Growth Figures. All rights reserved.

The image of taking a gift 'out of the bosom' (from a hidden pocket close to the heart) suggests a secret, covert transaction — a bribe slipped quietly to corrupt the justice system. This is not a neutral observation about gift-giving (as in verse 8) but a condemnation of the deliberate use of money to pervert judgment. God who is perfectly just is deeply offended by any corruption of justice.

Memory phrase: Bribes corrupt justice.

Talk about it: Why is it wrong to pay someone to do what is unfair?

Prayer: God, help me always be honest and fair.

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