Proverbs 17:23

A wicked man taketh a gift out of the bosom to pervert the ways of judgment.
– Proverbs 17:23

The word for gift means a present, or donation. The word most often refers to a bribe. The bosom refers to the folds of a garment that held a purse, or other valuables. We would similarly say from inside the vest. One can imagine the subtle movements to take out from the inside pocket and discreetly hand to another. The man is wicked because his gift is used to pervert the ways of judgment. The word for pervert means to bend away, and here to bend away from what is just. Bribes are contrary to wisdom and righteousness (Exodus 23:8), though they often bring success (Proverbs 17:8; 18:16).

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