The law forbids partiality and taking bribes because both corrupt justice, pervert righteousness, and dishonor God, who is perfectly just and impartial. Judges and leaders in Israel were to represent God’s character and uphold fairness without regard to wealth, status, or personal advantage.
“You shall appoint judges and officers in all your gates… and they shall judge the people with just judgment. You shall not pervert justice; you shall not show partiality, nor take a bribe…” (Deuteronomy 16:18–19)
Bribes blind the eyes and distort the truth. Partiality elevates people based on favoritism rather than the merits of the case. Both practices undermine trust in leadership and defile the covenant community. God demanded that Israel’s justice system be different from the corrupt systems of the surrounding nations.
“For a bribe blinds the eyes of the wise and twists the words of the righteous.” (Deuteronomy 16:19)
Justice was to be guided by God’s law alone, not by manipulation or influence. The command promoted equity, protected the vulnerable, and reinforced that truth is not for sale. By upholding impartial justice, Israel would reflect the holiness and integrity of the God they served.
