A covert bribe refers to a secret or hidden inducement offered to influence the actions or decisions of someone in a position of authority or responsibility. In the biblical context, bribery is consistently condemned as an act of injustice and corruption, undermining the principles of fairness and righteousness that are central to God's law.

Biblical Condemnation of Bribery

The Bible explicitly condemns bribery, associating it with wickedness and moral decay. In the Old Testament, the law given to Moses includes clear prohibitions against accepting bribes. Exodus 23:8 states, "Do not accept a bribe, for a bribe blinds those who see and twists the words of the righteous." This verse highlights the corrupting influence of bribes, which can distort justice and lead to the perversion of truth.

Deuteronomy 16:19 further reinforces this command: "Do not deny 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 the impartiality required of judges and leaders, who must not allow personal gain to interfere with their duty to uphold justice.

Bribery as a Sign of Societal Corruption

The prophets also speak against bribery, often linking it to the broader moral and spiritual decline of Israel. In Isaiah 1:23 , the prophet laments, "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 passage illustrates how bribery contributes to the neglect of the vulnerable and the breakdown of societal order.

Similarly, in Micah 3:11 , the prophet condemns 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.'" This verse underscores the hypocrisy of those who claim to serve God while engaging in corrupt practices.

New Testament Perspective

In the New Testament, the theme of integrity and honesty continues. While the term "bribe" is not as frequently mentioned, the principles of truthfulness and justice are upheld. Jesus' teachings emphasize the importance of sincerity and the dangers of hypocrisy, which can be seen as a form of moral bribery—presenting a false front to gain favor or avoid consequences.

The apostle Paul, in his letters, encourages believers to live lives above reproach, characterized by honesty and integrity. In 2 Corinthians 8:21 , Paul writes, "For 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 extends to all areas of life, including financial dealings and relationships with others.

Moral and Ethical Implications

From a biblical perspective, bribery is not merely a legal issue but a moral one. It reflects a heart that prioritizes personal gain over justice and righteousness. The Bible calls believers to a higher standard, one that seeks to honor God through fair and just actions. The consistent biblical condemnation of bribery serves as a reminder of the importance of integrity and the pursuit of justice in all aspects of life.