Proverbs 17:15 - Printer Friendly

ESV: He who justifies the wicked and he who condemns the righteous are both alike an abomination to the LORD.

NIV: Acquitting the guilty and condemning the innocent-- the LORD detests them both.

NASB: One who justifies the wicked and one who condemns the righteous, Both of them alike are an abomination to the Lord.

CSB: Acquitting the guilty and condemning the just -- both are detestable to the Lord.

NLT: Acquitting the guilty and condemning the innocent — both are detestable to the Lord.

KJV: He that justifieth the wicked, and he that condemneth the just, even they both are abomination to the LORD.

NKJV: He who justifies the wicked, and he who condemns the just, Both of them alike are an abomination to the Lord.

Solomon echoes his prior statements about God's hatred for evil and wickedness (Proverbs 6:16–19). Other remarks in Scripture make the same point as this proverb: that it's especially depraved to defend evil and to condemn goodness (Isaiah 5:20; Psalm 94:21). This applies to the individual, but it can also apply to an entire society (Proverbs 14:34). As modern cultures move further and further from biblical truth, they more readily defend sin and more quickly call biblical standards "evil" (1 Peter 4:4; John 16:1–2).

Eli's sons were priests who should have set an example of righteousness and justice, but they practiced immorality. Eli rebuked them, but they would not listen to him, therefore the Lord consigned them to die (1 Samuel 2:22–25; 3:11–14; 4:11–18). First Samuel 8:3 identifies Samuel's sons as judges in Israel that valued money above righteous justice. They "did not walk in [Samuel's] ways but turned aside after gain. They took bribes and perverted justice."

Proverbs 17:7–21 continues Solomon's wise observations. These remarks touch on speech, fools, strife, true friendship, co-signing loans, love of sinning, and what a fool can expect thanks to his foolishness. Numerous comments involve errors that lead to arguments and division. Some observations make a statement and then add to it, others present vivid contrasts.

This portion of Solomon's wise sayings involves several recurring themes. Among these are the importance of controlling one's words: hasty or spiteful language can do great harm. He also notes how wisdom and foolishness tend to be self-perpetuating. Wise people seek wisdom, foolish people seem immune to it. Other important topics are the impact of ungodly children on a family and the value of integrity and common sense.

Chapter 10 began a lengthy series of Solomon's statements of wisdom. This chapter continues by noting concepts such as honesty, controlled speech, and family harmony. The list continues into chapter 22.

Proverbs is best understood in context with the books of Ecclesiastes and Job. In Proverbs, “wisdom” is given in short, simple, general terms. Ecclesiastes represents wisdom based on observation and experience. This often shows how the general principles of the book of Proverbs don’t apply in absolutely every circumstance. Job represents wisdom based on the experience of suffering and injustice. All three come to the conclusion that God does indeed know best, and the most sensible course of action is to follow His will.

Accessed 5/1/2024 4:51:44 AM