These also are sayings of the wise:This phrase introduces a new section within the collection of Proverbs, indicating a continuation of wisdom literature. The "sayings of the wise" suggest teachings that are not only practical but divinely inspired, aligning with the wisdom tradition in Israel. This tradition is rooted in the fear of the Lord as the beginning of wisdom (
Proverbs 9:10). The phrase implies a collection of teachings that may have been gathered from various wise individuals, possibly including those outside of Israel, reflecting a broader understanding of wisdom that transcends cultural boundaries.
To show partiality in judgment:
Partiality in judgment refers to the unfair treatment of individuals based on personal bias or favoritism. In the ancient Near Eastern context, justice was a central concern, and judges were expected to uphold fairness and integrity. The Mosaic Law explicitly forbids partiality, as seen inLeviticus 19:15 andDeuteronomy 16:19, emphasizing that justice should be blind to status or wealth. This principle is echoed in the New Testament, whereJames 2:1-9 warns against favoritism within the Christian community. The call for impartiality reflects God's own nature, as He is described as a just judge who shows no favoritism (Romans 2:11).
is not good:
The phrase "is not good" is a moral evaluation, indicating that showing partiality is contrary to God's standards of righteousness. In the Hebrew context, "good" often refers to what aligns with God's will and purposes. The negative construction here underscores the seriousness of the offense, suggesting that partiality undermines the very fabric of justice and community. This aligns with the broader biblical narrative that calls for justice and righteousness as foundational to a godly society (Micah 6:8). The phrase serves as a warning that such behavior is not only socially destructive but also spiritually detrimental, as it contradicts the character of God and His desire for equitable treatment of all people.
Persons / Places / Events
1.
The WiseThis refers to the sages or wise men who contributed to the collection of Proverbs. They are individuals who possess wisdom, often seen as those who fear the Lord and live according to His principles.
2.
Judges/LeadersWhile not explicitly mentioned, the context implies those in positions of authority who are responsible for making judgments and decisions.
3.
IsraelThe cultural and historical backdrop of Proverbs is ancient Israel, where justice and fairness were central to societal and religious life.
Teaching Points
The Call for ImpartialityGod’s justice is impartial, and as His followers, we are called to reflect His character by being fair and unbiased in our judgments and interactions.
The Danger of PartialityShowing favoritism can lead to injustice and corruption, undermining trust and integrity within communities and relationships.
Wisdom in LeadershipLeaders and those in authority must seek wisdom from God to judge rightly, ensuring that their decisions are based on truth and righteousness rather than personal gain or bias.
Reflecting God’s CharacterAs Christians, we are called to be ambassadors of Christ, which includes upholding His standards of justice and fairness in all areas of life.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1.What is the meaning of Proverbs 24:23?
2.How can we avoid showing partiality in our daily interactions with others?
3.Why is it important to uphold justice according to Proverbs 24:23?
4.How does Proverbs 24:23 relate to James 2:1 about favoritism?
5.What are practical ways to implement fairness in our community?
6.How does showing partiality conflict with God's character as described in Scripture?
7.How does Proverbs 24:23 challenge our understanding of justice and fairness?
8.What historical context influenced the writing of Proverbs 24:23?
9.How does Proverbs 24:23 relate to modern legal systems?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Proverbs 24?
11.What defines multiculturalism?
12.What defines a biblical proverb?
13.If these proverbs claim universal wisdom, why is there no clear historical or archeological evidence of any unique ancient source behind Proverbs 6?
14.Why would Joash brutally execute Zechariah (2 Chronicles 24:20-21), the son of his mentor, if he truly revered Jehoiada's guidance?What Does Proverbs 24:23 Mean
These also are sayings of the wise• With this short phrase, the writer pauses to spotlight a fresh bundle of Spirit-breathed counsel, similar toProverbs 22:17, “Incline your ear and hear the words of the wise.”
• It reminds us that wisdom is cumulative: God keeps adding insight line upon line (Isaiah 28:10), and every new saying carries the same authority as the earlier ones.
• By calling them “sayings of the wise,” Scripture invites teachable hearts—echoingProverbs 1:5, “Let the wise listen and gain instruction.”
To show partiality in judgment• “Partiality” pictures tilting the scales for someone because of status, wealth, or personal connection. God repeatedly forbids it:
–Deuteronomy 1:17: “Do not show partiality in judgment; hear both small and great alike.”
–Leviticus 19:15: “Do not pervert justice; do not show partiality to the poor or favoritism to the rich.”
–James 2:1–4 warns churches against honoring the rich man over the poor visitor.
• Because every person bears God’s image (Genesis 1:27), justice must stay level. When we favor one face over another, we eclipse that truth and misrepresent the impartial Judge (Romans 2:11).
is not good• Scripture doesn’t soften the verdict. Showing favoritism is never a harmless oversight; it is morally “not good,” an affront to God’s character.
•Proverbs 28:21 echoes the same wording, underscoring the theme: “To show partiality is not good, yet a man will do wrong for a piece of bread.” Even a tiny bribe corrupts judgment.
• Unchecked partiality spreads—leaders who bend rules invite national decline (Micah 3:9–12), and families that excuse certain members sow division (Genesis 37).
summaryProverbs 24:23 opens a new cluster of divinely inspired wisdom and wastes no time pinpointing a danger: favoritism. Justice that leans toward power, money, or familiarity betrays God’s own impartial nature. Whether in a courtroom, workplace, church, or home, the righteous path is clear—keep the scales level, because any tilt, however slight, “is not good.”
6.SECOND APPENDIX TO "THE PROVERBS OF SOLOMON," CONTAINING PROVERBS OF VARIOUS LENGTHS, RESEMBLING
Proverbs 1:7--9:18, AND THE BOOK OF ECCLESIASTES (
Proverbs 24:23-34).
(23)These things also belong to the wise--i.e.,have the wise for their authors. (Comp.Proverbs 1:6;Proverbs 22:17.)
Verses 23-34. - Part V. A SECOND COLLECTION, forming a second supplement to the first Solomonic book, and containing further "words of the wise."
Verses 23-25. - Partiality and impartiality a hexastich.
Verse 23. -
These things also belong to the wise; are the sayings of wise men. The following proverbs, as well as the preceding, are derived from wise men. Mistaking this superscription, the LXX. makes it a personal address: "This I say to you who are wise, so that ye may learn." The first line is not a proverb, but the introduction to the ensuing collection.
It is not good to have respect of persons in judgment (see
Proverbs 18:5, and note there; and
Proverbs 28:21, where the expression is the same as here). To regard one person before another is to be partial and unjust. To say this error is "not good" is a meiosis, the meaning being that it is very evil and sinful (comp.
Proverbs 20:23). The statement is developed and confirmed in the next two verses, which show the results of partiality and its opposite.
Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew
Theseאֵ֥לֶּה(’êl·leh)Pronoun - common plural
Strong's 428:These, thosealsoגַּם־(gam-)Conjunction
Strong's 1571:Assemblage, also, even, yea, though, both, andare sayings of the wise:לַֽחֲכָמִ֑ים(la·ḥă·ḵā·mîm)Preposition-l, Article | Adjective - masculine plural
Strong's 2450:WiseTo show partialityהַֽכֵּר־(hak·kêr-)Verb - Hifil - Infinitive absolute
Strong's 5234:To regard, recognizein judgmentבְּמִשְׁפָּ֣ט(bə·miš·pāṭ)Preposition-b | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 4941:A verdict, a sentence, formal decree, divine law, penalty, justice, privilege, styleis notבַּל־(bal-)Adverb
Strong's 1077:A failure, nothing, not at all, lestgood.טֽוֹב׃(ṭō·wḇ)Adjective - masculine singular
Strong's 2896:Pleasant, agreeable, good
Links
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OT Poetry: Proverbs 24:23 These also are sayings of the wise (Prov. Pro Pr) 
