nor is depriving the innocent of justice
The second part of the verse underscores the necessity of protecting the rights of the innocent. In biblical times, the legal system was expected to uphold justice for all, especially for the vulnerable, such as widows, orphans, and foreigners (Exodus 23:6-7, Deuteronomy 27:19). Depriving the innocent of justice is seen as a grave sin, as it distorts the divine order and reflects a failure to love one's neighbor as oneself, a commandment reiterated by Jesus in Matthew 22:39. This phrase also connects to the prophetic calls for justice found in Isaiah 1:17 and Amos 5:24, where the prophets urge the people to seek justice and righteousness. The ultimate fulfillment of perfect justice is found in Jesus Christ, who embodies God's justice and mercy, offering redemption and advocating for the innocent.

“Showing partiality…” (Proverbs 18:5a) calls attention to the sin of favoring one party over another based on status, influence, or personal gain rather than truth. Scripture repeatedly warns against this: “You must not show partiality or take a bribe” (Deuteronomy 16:19). James echoes the same concern when he tells believers not to practice favoritism in the assembly (James 2:1–4).

• Partiality can look like:

– Bending rules for powerful people.

– Overlooking wrongdoing because of friendship or profit.

– Silencing the weak when their cause is inconvenient.

• God’s character is utterly impartial (Acts 10:34–35), so His people must reflect that standard.

The phrase targets those who are openly opposed to God’s ways. Aligning ourselves with them through biased decisions is condemned. Exodus 23:1 warns, “Do not join the wicked by being a malicious witness”. Proverbs 17:15 adds, “Acquitting the guilty and condemning the righteous—both are detestable to the LORD”. Favor granted to the wicked:

– Undermines moral order.

– Emboldens further evil.

– Sends a false message that God’s justice can be bought.

The verdict is clear and absolute. Isaiah’s rebuke fits here: “Woe to those who call evil good and good evil” (Isaiah 5:20). Proverbs 24:24 reinforces, “Whoever tells the guilty, ‘You are innocent’—the people will curse him; nations will denounce him”. Labeling injustice as “good” twists God-given moral categories and invites His judgment.

Injustice isn’t only showing favor to the wrong person; it’s also withholding what is due to the right person. Exodus 23:6 commands, “You shall not deny justice to the poor in their lawsuits”. Isaiah thunders against leaders “who deprive the oppressed of justice” (Isaiah 10:1–2). Depriving implies intentional neglect—turning a blind eye when we have authority to act.

God has a special concern for those who cannot defend themselves. “They condemn the innocent to death” grieves the psalmist (Psalm 94:21). Proverbs names “hands that shed innocent blood” among the abominations God hates (Proverbs 6:16–17). Protecting the innocent means:

– Listening to their case carefully.

– Refusing to let status or wealth drown out truth.

– Acting swiftly to clear them of false charges.

Justice is not a human invention but a reflection of God’s own nature: “Righteousness and justice are the foundation of Your throne” (Psalm 89:14). Micah 6:8 reminds every believer that God “has shown you… what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to act justly”. When justice is denied, society unravels and God’s name is dishonored.

Proverbs 18:5 exposes two sides of the same wrong: elevating the guilty and oppressing the innocent. Both violate God’s unchanging standard of impartial justice. He calls His people to mirror His character by refusing favoritism, defending the blameless, and ensuring that every decision we make—whether in the courtroom, the workplace, or daily relationships—lines up with His righteous, unwavering truth.