Bribery, a practice condemned throughout the Scriptures, is depicted as a corrupting force that distorts justice and blinds the discernment of those in positions of authority. The Bible provides numerous warnings against the acceptance of bribes, emphasizing the moral and spiritual degradation that accompanies such actions.

Old Testament Teachings

The Old Testament contains explicit prohibitions against bribery, particularly in the context of justice and leadership. In Exodus 23:8, the Lord commands, "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, suggesting that they impair the judgment of even those who are otherwise perceptive and righteous.

Deuteronomy 16:19 further reinforces this principle: "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 text underscores the danger of partiality and the perversion of justice that results from bribery, emphasizing its ability to blind the wise and distort truth.

The prophet Samuel, in his farewell address to Israel, presents himself as a model of integrity by declaring, "Here I am; testify against me before the LORD and His anointed. Whose ox or donkey have I taken? Whom have I wronged or oppressed? From whose hand have I accepted a bribe to overlook something? If I have done any of these, I will make it right" (1 Samuel 12:3). Samuel's declaration serves as a testament to the importance of maintaining integrity and resisting the temptation of bribery.

Wisdom Literature

The wisdom literature of the Old Testament 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 associates bribery with wickedness and highlights its role in undermining justice, suggesting that those who engage in such practices are morally corrupt.

Proverbs 15:27 warns, "He who is greedy for unjust gain brings trouble on his household, but he who hates bribes will live" . This verse contrasts the destructive consequences of greed and bribery with the life-giving benefits of rejecting such practices, implying that integrity leads to a more stable and prosperous life.

Prophetic Condemnations

The prophets of Israel frequently condemned bribery as a symptom of societal decay and a violation of God's covenant. Isaiah 1:23 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 indictment of Israel's leaders illustrates how bribery contributes to social injustice and neglect of the vulnerable.

Micah 3:11 offers a similar rebuke: "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 condemns the hypocrisy of those who exploit their positions for personal gain while falsely claiming divine favor.

New Testament Insights

While the New Testament does not address bribery as extensively as the Old Testament, it continues to uphold the principles of justice and integrity. In the account of Jesus' trial, the chief priests and elders are depicted as using bribery to secure false testimony against Him (Matthew 26:59-60). This narrative illustrates the destructive power of bribery in perverting justice and truth.

The apostle Paul, in his pastoral instructions, emphasizes the importance of integrity among church leaders. In Titus 1:7, he writes, "As God’s steward, an overseer must be above reproach—not self-absorbed, not quick-tempered, not given to drunkenness, not violent, not greedy for money" . Although not explicitly mentioning bribery, this passage underscores the necessity for leaders to be free from the corrupting influence of greed and financial impropriety.

Conclusion

The biblical witness consistently portrays bribery as a morally corrosive practice that blinds judgment, perverts justice, and undermines societal integrity. Through its teachings, the Bible calls for a commitment to righteousness and impartiality, urging believers to resist the temptations of bribery and uphold the principles of justice and truth.