Verse

Exodus 23:8

ESV And you shall take no bribe, for a bribe blinds the clear-sighted and subverts the cause of those who are in the right.
NIV "Do not accept a bribe, for a bribe blinds those who see and twists the words of the innocent.
NASB You shall not take a bribe, for a bribe blinds the clear-sighted and subverts the cause of the just.
CSB You must not take a bribe, for a bribe blinds the clear-sighted and corrupts the words of the righteous.
NLT Take no bribes, for a bribe makes you ignore something that you clearly see. A bribe makes even a righteous person twist the truth.
KJV And thou shalt take no gift: for the gift blindeth the wise, and perverteth the words of the righteous.
NKJV And you shall take no bribe, for a bribe blinds the discerning and perverts the words of the righteous.

What does Exodus 23:8 mean?

Please see our chapter commentary on Exodus 23; verse-level content coming soon!
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Context Summary
Exodus 23:1–9 requires impartial judgment under Israelite law. God's people are not to accept bribes or spread lies. They are not to follow popular opinion when that view is unjust. Neither being rich nor being poor should be an advantage in matters of judgment. Israelites must be fair and honest, even when dealing with their adversaries. Judgments should not be used to intimidate or punish foreigners and travelers.
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Chapter Summary
These laws mandate fair judgment, with no bias given for or against the rich, the poor, or foreign travelers. God commands Israel not to follow popular sentiment when it is unjust. Other rules require letting fields grow wild every seven years for the benefit of the land, the poor, and wild animals. The Lord then warns Israel about obedience. If they follow His will, an angel will guide them as they conquer the entire Promised Land (Genesis 15:18–21; Deuteronomy 11:24).
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