Proverbs 20:23

23 Divers weights are an abomination unto the LORD; and a false[a] balance is not good.

Proverbs 20:23 Meaning and Commentary

Proverbs 20:23

Divers weights [are] an abomination unto the Lord
(See Gill on Proverbs 20:10); which is here repeated for the further confirmation of it, and that it might be taken notice of and avoided; and perhaps this sin of using false weights and measures was common with the Jews; and a false balance [is] not good;
in the sight of God; but an abomination, as in ( Proverbs 11:1 ) ; nor is it good for men in the issue; for though they may gain by it at present, it will prove a loss to them in the end, since it will bring a curse on all they get.

Proverbs 20:23 In-Context

21 An inheritance may be gotten hastily at the beginning; but the end thereof shall not be blessed.
22 Say not thou, I will recompense evil; but wait on the LORD, and he shall save thee.
23 Divers weights are an abomination unto the LORD; and a false balance is not good.
24 Man's goings are of the LORD; how can a man then understand his own way?
25 It is a snare to the man who devoureth that which is holy, and after vows to make enquiry.

Footnotes 1

  • [a]. a false...: Heb. balance of deceit
The King James Version is in the public domain.