You shall not deny justiceThis command underscores the importance of justice as a fundamental principle in the Mosaic Law. Justice is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, reflecting God's character as a just and righteous judge (
Deuteronomy 32:4). The Hebrew word for justice, "mishpat," implies fairness, equity, and the proper administration of the law. This commandment aligns with other biblical injunctions against partiality and corruption (
Leviticus 19:15,
Deuteronomy 16:19). The emphasis on justice is also seen in the prophetic literature, where prophets like Isaiah and Amos call out the leaders of Israel for failing to uphold justice (
Isaiah 1:17,
Amos 5:24).
to the poor
The poor, or "ani" in Hebrew, often represent the marginalized and vulnerable in society. In ancient Israel, the poor were particularly susceptible to exploitation and injustice due to their lack of resources and social standing. The Bible consistently advocates for the protection and fair treatment of the poor, reflecting God's concern for the oppressed (Psalm 82:3-4,Proverbs 31:8-9). Jesus Christ, in His ministry, also emphasized care for the poor, highlighting their blessedness in the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:3) and identifying with them (Matthew 25:40).
in their lawsuits
Legal proceedings in ancient Israel were typically held at the city gates, where elders and judges would hear cases (Deuteronomy 21:19,Ruth 4:1). The mention of lawsuits indicates a formal legal context where justice must be upheld. The Mosaic Law provided specific guidelines to ensure fairness in legal matters, including the requirement for multiple witnesses (Deuteronomy 19:15) and the prohibition of false testimony (Exodus 20:16). This phrase highlights the necessity of impartiality and integrity in judicial processes, ensuring that even the poor receive a fair hearing. The New Testament echoes this principle, as seen inJames 2:1-9, where believers are warned against showing favoritism based on wealth or status.
Persons / Places / Events
1.
MosesThe leader of the Israelites who received the Law from God on Mount Sinai, including the instructions found in
Exodus 23.
2.
IsraelitesThe chosen people of God, who were given the Law to guide their conduct and relationship with God and each other.
3.
Mount SinaiThe place where God delivered the Law to Moses, including the commandments and ordinances found in Exodus.
4.
The PoorA group specifically mentioned in this verse, representing those who are vulnerable and often marginalized in society.
5.
Judicial System in Ancient IsraelThe context in which this command was given, emphasizing fairness and justice in legal matters.
Teaching Points
Justice as a Divine MandateGod’s command to not deny justice to the poor reflects His character as a just God. Believers are called to mirror this attribute in their dealings with others.
Impartiality in JudgmentThe verse underscores the importance of impartiality, especially in legal matters. Christians are encouraged to uphold fairness and integrity, resisting the temptation to favor the wealthy or powerful.
Advocacy for the VulnerableThis command highlights the need for advocacy on behalf of those who are marginalized. Believers are called to be voices for the voiceless and to ensure that justice is accessible to all, regardless of their socio-economic status.
Reflection of Christ’s TeachingsJesus’ ministry often focused on the marginalized, and His followers are called to continue this mission by ensuring justice and mercy are extended to all.
Practical Justice in Today’s WorldApplying this principle today involves engaging in social justice initiatives, supporting fair legal practices, and being aware of the systemic issues that affect the poor.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1.What is the meaning of Exodus 23:6?
2.How can we ensure justice for the poor in our community today?
3.What does Exodus 23:6 teach about God's view on justice?
4.How does Exodus 23:6 connect with Proverbs 31:9 on defending the needy?
5.In what ways might we "deny justice" in modern society?
6.How can Exodus 23:6 guide our actions in legal or leadership roles?
7.How does Exodus 23:6 address the issue of justice for the poor in society?
8.What historical context influenced the command in Exodus 23:6?
9.How does Exodus 23:6 reflect God's character regarding justice?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Exodus 23?
11.What does it mean that God embodies justice?
12.What does the Bible say about serving on a jury?
13.What does it mean that God embodies justice?
14.Proverbs 29:26 declares true justice comes solely from the LORD; does this clash with other biblical passages endorsing human justice systems?What Does Exodus 23:6 Mean
You shall not deny• This opening phrase comes as a direct command, leaving no wiggle room. The Lord is not making a suggestion; He is issuing an unmistakable order (Exodus 20:1).
• The negative structure (“shall not”) reminds us of other absolute prohibitions such as “You shall not murder” (Exodus 20:13). God consistently forbids any action that would distort His holy character.
• By commanding what must not happen, the verse exposes the human tendency to do the very opposite—deny or withhold fairness when it seems convenient.
justice• Justice is not a vague ideal; it is the practical expression of God’s righteousness in everyday life (Psalm 89:14: “Righteousness and justice are the foundation of Your throne”).
• Scripture consistently ties justice to truth.Proverbs 21:3 says, “To do righteousness and justice is more acceptable to the LORD than sacrifice”, underscoring that worship divorced from equitable treatment of others is unacceptable.
• The command implies that God’s people must actively protect what is right, not merely avoid doing wrong.Isaiah 1:17 pushes the point: “Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed”.
to the poor• God singles out the poor because they are most likely to be ignored, silenced, or exploited.Proverbs 14:31 warns, “Whoever oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker.”
• Partiality toward the wealthy is a recurring temptation.James 2:1–4 rebukes favoritism in the assembly, reminding believers that God has chosen “those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith”.
• Instead of patronizing pity, the text calls for genuine equity.Leviticus 19:15 balances the scales: “Do not pervert justice; do not show partiality to the poor or favoritism to the great”. The point is impartial fairness rooted in God’s character.
in their lawsuits• The courtroom setting is where power disparities become glaringly obvious.Exodus 23:2–3 already forbid siding with a crowd or showing partiality in a dispute.
• Judges, witnesses, and even bystanders bear responsibility.Proverbs 31:8–9 urges, “Open your mouth for the mute… defend the rights of the needy”. Silence can be a form of denial.
• The command protects due process: every person, regardless of economic status, must receive an honest hearing.Deuteronomy 1:17 encapsulates it: “Do not show partiality in judgment; hear both small and great alike”.
summaryExodus 23:6 lays down a firm, timeless standard: God’s people must never withhold or twist justice, especially against those least able to defend themselves. The verse calls us to active, impartial righteousness—reflecting the very heart of God in every decision and interaction.
(6)
Thou shalt not wrest the judgment of thy poor.--If we are not to favour the poor man in a court of justice on account of his poverty (
Exodus 23:3), much less are we to treat him with disfavour. (Comp.
Deuteronomy 24:17;
Deuteronomy 27:19;
Jeremiah 5:28, &c.)
Verse 6. - As in verse 3 men were warned not to favour the poor unduly in courts of justice out of compassion for them, so here there is a warning against the opposite, and far more usual error, of leaning against the poor man in our evidence or in our decisions The scales of justice are to be held even; strict right is to be done; our feelings are not be allowed to influence us, much less our class prejudices.
Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew
You shall notלֹ֥א(lō)Adverb - Negative particle
Strong's 3808:Not, nodenyתַטֶּ֛ה(ṯaṭ·ṭeh)Verb - Hifil - Imperfect - second person masculine singular
Strong's 5186:To stretch out, spread out, extend, incline, bendjusticeמִשְׁפַּ֥ט(miš·paṭ)Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 4941:A verdict, a sentence, formal decree, divine law, penalty, justice, privilege, styleto the poorאֶבְיֹנְךָ֖(’eḇ·yō·nə·ḵā)Adjective - masculine singular construct | second person masculine singular
Strong's 34:In want, needy, poorin their lawsuits.בְּרִיבֽוֹ׃(bə·rî·ḇōw)Preposition-b | Noun - masculine singular construct | third person masculine singular
Strong's 7379:Strife, dispute
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OT Law: Exodus 23:6 You shall not deny justice to your (Exo. Ex) 
