Topical Encyclopedia In biblical literature, the right hand often symbolizes power, authority, and blessing. However, it can also represent corruption and injustice when associated with sinful actions, such as taking bribes. The imagery of the right hand being "full of bribes" is a poignant depiction of moral decay and ethical compromise, particularly among those in positions of authority.Biblical Context The concept of the right hand being "full of bribes" is drawn from Psalm 26:10, which states, "in whose hands are wicked schemes, whose right hands are full of bribes." This verse is part of a larger passage where David appeals to God for vindication, contrasting his integrity with the deceitfulness of the wicked. The right hand, typically a symbol of strength and honor, becomes a metaphor for corruption when it is used to accept bribes, indicating a betrayal of justice and righteousness. Moral and Ethical Implications In the biblical worldview, accepting bribes is a grave sin that undermines justice and fairness. Bribery distorts judgment and perverts the course of justice, leading to societal decay. The Bible consistently condemns bribery, as seen in passages like Exodus 23:8, "Do not accept a bribe, for a bribe blinds those who see and twists the words of the righteous." The right hand, when used for corrupt purposes, signifies a departure from God's standards. It reflects a heart that prioritizes personal gain over truth and justice. This imagery serves as a warning to leaders and individuals alike to maintain integrity and resist the temptation to exploit their positions for dishonest gain. Theological Reflection From a theological perspective, the right hand full of bribes is a stark reminder of human fallibility and the pervasive nature of sin. It underscores the need for divine intervention and transformation through God's grace. Believers are called to emulate the righteousness of Christ, who is often depicted as seated at the right hand of God, symbolizing ultimate authority and purity. The New Testament reinforces the call to integrity and justice. In 1 Timothy 6:10, Paul warns, "For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil." This love of money, often manifested in bribery, leads individuals away from faith and into moral ruin. Practical Application For contemporary believers, the admonition against having a right hand full of bribes is a call to uphold justice and integrity in all areas of life. Whether in personal dealings, business, or governance, Christians are encouraged to act with honesty and fairness, reflecting the character of God in their actions. In conclusion, the imagery of the right hand full of bribes serves as a powerful biblical metaphor for corruption and moral compromise. It challenges individuals to examine their own lives and to strive for righteousness, seeking to honor God in all their dealings. Torrey's Topical Textbook Psalm 26:10In whose hands is mischief, and their right hand is full of bribes. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Promises of the Law and the Gospel Reconciled. On the Formation of the Character of Believers, and on Giving of ... Death and Life in Christ Immortality of the Soul, and a Future State. St. Gregory the Great. The Preacher as a False Prophet. The Bible and the French Revolution. The Bible and the French Revolution English Version of the Second Helvetic Confession, AD 1566. The Exodus Resources Did Jesus mean we should literally pluck out our eyes and cut off our hands in Matthew 5:29-30 and 18:8-9? | GotQuestions.orgThe Hands and Feet of Jesus ' and the Mouth! | GotQuestions.org How could the laws of God be written on doorframes, gates, and foreheads? | GotQuestions.org Hands: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics The Hands of the Wicked, Described as Bloody The Hands of the Wicked, Described as Ensnaring to Themselves The Hands of the Wicked, Described as Mischievous The Hands of the Wicked, Described as Slothful The Hands of the Wicked, Described as Violent The Hands were Lifted up in Blessing The Hands were Lifted up in Praise The Hands were Lifted up in Prayer The Hands were Lifted up in Taking an Oath The Hands were Washed in Token of Innocency The Hands were Washed: After Touching an Unclean Person The Hands were Washed: Before Eating The Hands: (Cutting off) of Extreme Self-Denial The Hands: (Lifted up Against Another) of Rebellion The Hands: (Opened) Liberality The Hands: (Shut) Illiberality The Hands: Clapped Together in Joy The Hands: Criminals often: Bound By The Hands: Criminals often: Deprived of The Hands: Criminals often: Hung By The Hands: Criminals often: Mutilated In The Hands: Custom of Domestics Pouring Water Upon, Alluded To The Hands: Distinguished as The Left The Hands: Distinguished as The Right The Hands: Imposition of, a First Principle of the Doctrine of Christ The Hands: Imposition of, Used in Blessing The Hands: Imposition of, Used in Conferring Civil Power The Hands: Imposition of, Used in Imparting the Gifts of the Holy Spirit The Hands: Imposition of, Used in Ordaining Ministers The Hands: Imposition of, Used in Setting Apart the Levites The Hands: Imposition of, Used in Transferring Guilt of Sacrifices The Hands: Kissed in Idolatrous Worship The Hands: Many Alike Expert With Both The Hands: Many had More Command of the Left The Hands: Necessary Members of the Body The Hands: Often Spread out in Prayer The Hands: Operations of, Mentioned: Feeling The Hands: Operations of, Mentioned: Holding The Hands: Operations of, Mentioned: Making Signs The Hands: Operations of, Mentioned: Striking The Hands: Operations of, Mentioned: Taking The Hands: Operations of, Mentioned: Working The Hands: Operations of, Mentioned: Writing The Hands: Parts of, Mentioned: The Fingers The Hands: Parts of, Mentioned: The Palm The Hands: Parts of, Mentioned: The Thumb The Hands: Placed Under the Thigh of a Person to Whom an Oath Was Made The Hands: Right Hand of Strength and Power The Hands: Right Hand: (Full of Bribes) of Corruption The Hands: Right Hand: (Full of Falsehood) of Deceitfulness The Hands: Right Hand: (Holding By) of Support The Hands: Right Hand: (Standing At) Protection The Hands: Right Hand: (Withdrawn) Support Withheld The Hands: Saints Blessed in the Work of The Hands: Servants Directed by Movements of The Hands: should be Employed in Acts of Benevolence The Hands: should be Employed in God's Service The Hands: should be Employed: Industriously The Hands: Smitten Together in Extreme Anger The Hands: Stretched out in Derision The Hands: Suretiship Entered Into by Striking The Hands: The Jews Carried a Staff In, when Walking The Hands: The Right Hand of Healed Leper Touched With Blood of his Sacrifice The Hands: The Right Hand of Healed Leper Touched With Oil The Hands: The Right Hand of Priests Touched With Blood of Consecration-Ram The Hands: The Right Hand used in Embracing The Hands: The Right Hand: Given in Token of Friendship The Hands: The Right Hand: Place of Honor The Hands: The Right Hand: Place of Power The Hands: The Right Hand: Signet Worn On The Hands: The Right Hand: Sworn By The Hands: The Right Hand: The Accuser Stood At, of the Accused The Hands: The Wicked Recompensed for the Work of The Hands: Treaties Made by Joining Related Terms The-not-beloved (1 Occurrence) Kir'iath-je'arim (18 Occurrences) Kirjathjearim (17 Occurrences) Vine-dressers (18 Occurrences) Kirjath-jearim (17 Occurrences) Kibroth-hattaavah (5 Occurrences) |
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