Why are unequal weights unjust to God?
Why is using "two differing weights" considered unjust in God's eyes?

The Key Verse

“Differing weights and differing measures—both are detestable to the LORD.” (Proverbs 20:10)


What Are Two Differing Weights?

• Merchants in the ancient world carried stone or metal weights for buying and selling.

• Keeping a heavier weight for purchases and a lighter one for sales stole value from customers while appearing legitimate.

• The practice was intentional, deliberate deception—sin in disguise.


Why God Calls It Detestable

• Violation of Truth

– God “cannot lie” (Titus 1:2). Falsifying measures contradicts His nature.

• Violation of Justice

– “Righteousness and justice are the foundation of Your throne” (Psalm 89:14). Crooked scales attack that foundation.

• Violation of Love for Neighbor

– “Love your neighbor as yourself” (Leviticus 19:18). Cheating a neighbor is loveless.

• Violation of Covenant Commands

– “You shall not have two differing weights, a large and a small… For everyone who does such things, everyone who acts unjustly, is detestable to the LORD your God.” (Deuteronomy 25:13-16)


How the Principle Runs Through Scripture

Leviticus 19:35-36—God demands “honest scales, honest weights.”

Proverbs 11:1—“Dishonest scales are an abomination to the LORD, but an accurate weight is His delight.”

Micah 6:10-11—Fraudulent weights draw prophetic judgment.

Amos 8:4-6—Cheating the poor invites national calamity.

James 2:1-4—Partiality in the church is another form of unequal measure.

1 Thessalonians 4:6—“No one should wrong or defraud his brother… because the Lord is the avenger in all these things.”


Practical Takeaways for Today

• Integrity in Business

– Honest pricing, transparent contracts, no hidden fees.

• Integrity in Personal Dealings

– No double standards—treat family, coworkers, and strangers with the same fairness.

• Integrity in Leadership and Government

– Laws and policies must reflect equal justice without favoritism.

• Integrity in the Church

– Apply Scripture consistently; do not excuse sin in one person while condemning it in another.

• Integrity of Heart

– Ask the Lord to search motives; inner honesty is the safeguard against outward fraud (Psalm 51:6).

Using two differing weights is unjust because it assaults God’s truth, justice, love, and covenant. Honest scales honor Him and bless our neighbors.

How does Deuteronomy 25:13 emphasize honesty in business practices today?
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