And thou shalt take no gift: for the gift blindeth the wise, and perverteth the words of the righteous.
Don't accept bribes, because bribes blind even wise people and twist the words of those who try to do right.
God is warning that accepting bribes corrupts judgment and turns even good people away from speaking truth.
📚 Historical Context
In the historical context of Exodus, God was giving the Israelites a set of laws to guide their society as they prepared to enter the Promised Land, emphasizing justice and moral integrity in their dealings. This command against accepting gifts specifically addressed the dangers of bribery in judicial matters, which was a widespread issue in ancient Near Eastern cultures and could lead to unfair verdicts by influencing even wise leaders. By prohibiting such practices, God aimed to set His people apart as a nation committed to righteousness and impartiality.
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