He that walketh righteously, and speaketh uprightly; he that despiseth the gain of oppressions, that shaketh his hands from holding of bribes, that stoppeth his ears from hearing of blood, and shutteth his eyes from seeing evil;
The person who lives with integrity and speaks honestly; who refuses to profit from hurting others, who won't accept bribes, who refuses to listen to plans for violence, and who turns away from looking at evil things;
This verse describes the character of a righteous person who actively chooses to live with integrity by avoiding corruption, violence, and evil in both their actions and what they allow into their mind.
📚 Historical Context
Isaiah was writing during a time of great corruption in Israel's leadership, when judges took bribes and the wealthy oppressed the poor. The nation was facing judgment from God, and Isaiah was contrasting the behavior of the wicked leaders with what God expected from His people. This verse is part of a larger passage describing who would be safe when God's judgment came.
Ask the AI Assistant
Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.