Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical context, the concept of bribery is consistently portrayed as a corrupt and unjust practice that undermines justice and righteousness. The act of bribing involves offering money, gifts, or other forms of inducement to influence the actions or decisions of someone in a position of authority or responsibility. The Bible addresses the issue of bribery in various passages, highlighting its moral and ethical implications.Old Testament References The Old Testament contains numerous admonitions against bribery, emphasizing its destructive impact on justice and fairness. In Exodus 23:8, the Israelites are commanded, "Do not accept a bribe, for a bribe blinds those who see and twists the words of the righteous." This verse underscores the corrupting influence of bribes, which can distort judgment and lead to injustice. Deuteronomy 16:19 further reinforces this principle: "Do not pervert justice or show partiality. Do not accept a bribe, for a bribe blinds the eyes of the wise and twists the words of the righteous." Here, the emphasis is on maintaining impartiality and integrity in judicial proceedings, warning that bribery compromises the ability to discern truth and administer justice. The prophet Samuel, in his farewell address to the Israelites, highlights his own integrity by declaring that he has not accepted bribes: "Here I am; testify against me before the LORD and His anointed. Whose ox have I taken, or whose donkey have I taken? Whom have I defrauded or oppressed? From whose hand have I accepted a bribe to overlook something? If I have done any of these things, I will make it right" (1 Samuel 12:3). Samuel's statement serves as a model of righteous leadership, free from the taint of corruption. Wisdom Literature The wisdom literature of the Bible also addresses the issue of bribery. Proverbs 17:23 states, "A wicked man takes a covert bribe to subvert the course of justice." This proverb highlights the clandestine nature of bribery and its role in perverting justice. Similarly, Proverbs 15:27 warns, "He who is greedy for unjust gain brings trouble to his household, but he who hates bribes will live." This verse contrasts the destructive consequences of greed and bribery with the blessings of integrity. Prophetic Warnings The prophets of Israel frequently condemned the practice of bribery as part of their broader critique of social injustice. Isaiah 1:23 laments the corruption of Jerusalem's leaders: "Your rulers are rebels, friends of thieves. They all love bribes and chase after gifts. They do not defend the fatherless, and the plea of the widow never comes before them." This indictment highlights the failure of leaders to uphold justice and protect the vulnerable due to their greed and corruption. Micah 3:11 similarly denounces the leaders of Israel: "Her leaders judge for a bribe, her priests teach for a price, and her prophets practice divination for money. Yet they lean upon the LORD, saying, 'Is not the LORD among us? No disaster will come upon us.'" The prophet exposes the hypocrisy of those who claim to serve God while engaging in corrupt practices. New Testament Perspective While the New Testament does not address bribery as extensively as the Old Testament, it upholds the principles of justice and integrity. In the account of Jesus' trial, the chief priests and elders are depicted as seeking false testimony against Jesus, an act that can be seen as a form of bribery to achieve their unjust ends (Matthew 26:59). The apostle Paul, in his letters, emphasizes the importance of honesty and integrity in the life of a believer. In 2 Corinthians 8:21, he writes, "We are taking great care to do what is right, not only in the eyes of the Lord but also in the eyes of men." This commitment to righteousness and transparency stands in stark contrast to the corrupting influence of bribery. Conclusion Throughout the Bible, bribery is consistently condemned as a practice that undermines justice, distorts truth, and corrupts individuals and societies. The biblical call is for integrity, impartiality, and righteousness, reflecting the character of God and His desire for justice and fairness in human affairs. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (imp. & p. p.) of Bribe.Library The Justice of God The Task of Modern Idealists Indeed is Made Much Too Easy for them ... The First Christian Martyr First Impressions Prolonged Agony ecce Iterum Crispinus!' Before Annas and the Court of Caiaphas The Vengeance of Heaven False Witnesses The Advance of Xerxes into Greece. Thesaurus Bribed (2 Occurrences)...Bribed (2 Occurrences). Matthew 28:12 So the latter held a conference with the Elders, and after consultation with them they heavily bribed the soldiers, (WEY). ... /b/bribed.htm - 7k Bribery (2 Occurrences) Bribe (27 Occurrences) Noadiah (2 Occurrences) Latter (91 Occurrences) Incorruptible (8 Occurrences) Delilah (7 Occurrences) Menelaus Bought (66 Occurrences) Corruptible (7 Occurrences) Resources What does the Bible say about bribery / giving or receiving a bribe? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about integrity? | GotQuestions.org Who was Samson in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Bribed: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Bribed (2 Occurrences)Matthew 28:12 Ezekiel 16:33 Subtopics Related Terms |