Proverbs 20:23
Proverbs 20:23 in Multiple Translations
Unequal weights are detestable to the LORD, and dishonest scales are no good.
Divers weights are an abomination unto the LORD; and a false balance is not good.
Diverse weights are an abomination to Jehovah; And a false balance is not good.
Unequal weights are disgusting to the Lord, and false scales are not good.
The Lord hates incorrect weights; using dishonest scales is wrong.
Diuers weightes are an abomination vnto the Lord, and deceitful balances are not good.
An abomination to Jehovah [are] a stone and a stone, And balances of deceit [are] not good.
The LORD detests differing weights, and dishonest scales are not pleasing.
Divers weights are an abomination to the LORD; and a false balance is not good.
Diverse weights are an abomination before the Lord: a deceitful balance is not good.
Yahweh detests those who use dishonest scales and weights that are not accurate/correct.
Berean Amplified Bible — Proverbs 20:23
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
Proverbs 20:23 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
תּוֹעֲבַ֣ת
יְ֭הוָה
אֶ֣בֶן
וָ/אָ֑בֶן
וּ/מֹאזְנֵ֖י
מִרְמָ֣ה
לֹא
טֽוֹב
תּוֹעֲבַ֣ת
tôwʻêbah
H8441
abomination
N-fs
יְ֭הוָה
Yᵉhôvâh
H3068
The Lord
N-proper
אֶ֣בֶן
ʼeben
H68
stone
N-fs
וָ/אָ֑בֶן
ʼeben
H68
stone
Conj | N-fs
וּ/מֹאזְנֵ֖י
môʼzên
H3976
balance
Conj | N-md
מִרְמָ֣ה
mirmâh
H4820
deceit
N-fs
לֹא
lôʼ
H3808
not
Part
טֽוֹב
ṭôwb
H2896
pleasant
Adj
Hebrew Word Study
Select any word above to explore its original meaning, root, and usage across Scripture.
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Hebrew Word Reference — Proverbs 20:23
תּוֹעֲבַ֣ת
tôwʻêbah
H8441
"abomination"
N-fs
The Hebrew word for abomination refers to something disgusting, like idolatry or unclean food, and is often used to describe wickedness in the Bible.
Definition: 1) a disgusting thing, abomination, abominable 1a) in ritual sense (of unclean food, idols, mixed marriages) 1b) in ethical sense (of wickedness etc)
Usage: Occurs in 112 OT verses. KJV: abominable (custom, thing), abomination. See also: Genesis 43:32; Proverbs 26:25; Psalms 88:9.
יְ֭הוָה
Yᵉhôvâh
H3068
"The Lord"
N-proper
Yehovah is another name for God, often translated as 'the Lord'. It is a national name for God in the Jewish faith. This name is used throughout the Old Testament.
Definition: Another name of ye.ru.sha.laim (יְרוּשָׁלִַ֫ם, יְרוּשְׁלֵם "Jerusalem" H3389)
Usage: Occurs in 5522 OT verses. KJV: Jehovah, the Lord. Compare H3050 (יָהּ), H3069 (יְהֹוִה). See also: Genesis 2:4; Genesis 24:42; Exodus 8:8.
אֶ֣בֶן
ʼeben
H68
"stone"
N-fs
In the Bible, this word refers to a stone, which could be a rock, a weight, or even a precious gem. It is used to describe a variety of objects, from building materials to hailstones. The KJV translates it as stone or weight.
Definition: : weight 1) stone (large or small) 1a) common stone (in natural state) 1b) stone, as material 1b1) of tablets 1b2) marble, hewn stones 1c) precious stones, stones of fire 1d) stones containing metal (ore), tool for work or weapon 1e) weight 1f) plummet (stones of destruction) also made of metal 1g) stonelike objects, eg hailstones, stony heart, ice 1h) sacred object, as memorial Samuel set up to mark where God helped Israel to defeat the Philistines 1i) (simile) 1i1) sinking in water, motionlessness 1i2) strength, firmness, solidity 1i3) commonness 1j) (metaph) 1j1) petrified with terror 1j2) perverse, hard heart
Usage: Occurs in 239 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] carbuncle, [phrase] mason, [phrase] plummet, (chalk-, hail-, head-, sling-) stone(-ny), (divers) weight(-s). See also: Genesis 2:12; 1 Samuel 6:15; Psalms 91:12.
וָ/אָ֑בֶן
ʼeben
H68
"stone"
Conj | N-fs
In the Bible, this word refers to a stone, which could be a rock, a weight, or even a precious gem. It is used to describe a variety of objects, from building materials to hailstones. The KJV translates it as stone or weight.
Definition: : weight 1) stone (large or small) 1a) common stone (in natural state) 1b) stone, as material 1b1) of tablets 1b2) marble, hewn stones 1c) precious stones, stones of fire 1d) stones containing metal (ore), tool for work or weapon 1e) weight 1f) plummet (stones of destruction) also made of metal 1g) stonelike objects, eg hailstones, stony heart, ice 1h) sacred object, as memorial Samuel set up to mark where God helped Israel to defeat the Philistines 1i) (simile) 1i1) sinking in water, motionlessness 1i2) strength, firmness, solidity 1i3) commonness 1j) (metaph) 1j1) petrified with terror 1j2) perverse, hard heart
Usage: Occurs in 239 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] carbuncle, [phrase] mason, [phrase] plummet, (chalk-, hail-, head-, sling-) stone(-ny), (divers) weight(-s). See also: Genesis 2:12; 1 Samuel 6:15; Psalms 91:12.
וּ/מֹאזְנֵ֖י
môʼzên
H3976
"balance"
Conj | N-md
In the Bible, this word means a pair of scales used for weighing, like the ones in the book of Leviticus. It symbolizes fairness and justice. The prophet Daniel also used scales in his visions.
Definition: scales, balances Aramaic equivalent: mo.zen (מֹאזֵנְיָא "scale" H3977)
Usage: Occurs in 15 OT verses. KJV: balances. See also: Leviticus 19:36; Isaiah 40:12; Psalms 62:10.
מִרְמָ֣ה
mirmâh
H4820
"deceit"
N-fs
This Hebrew word means deceit or cheating, like when someone tricks or lies to another person. It appears in stories about dishonest people, like in Jeremiah 8:10, where the prophet talks about the deceit of the Israelites. The word is often translated as 'deceit' or 'craft' in English Bibles.
Definition: deceit, treachery
Usage: Occurs in 38 OT verses. KJV: craft, deceit(-ful, -fully), false, feigned, guile, subtilly, treachery. See also: Genesis 27:35; Proverbs 11:1; Psalms 5:7.
לֹא
lôʼ
H3808
"not"
Part
The Hebrew word for not or no is used to indicate absence or negation, as when God says no to the Israelites' requests, or when they disobey His commands.
Definition: 1) not, no 1a) not (with verb-absolute prohibition) 1b) not (with modifier-negation) 1c) nothing (subst) 1d) without (with particle) 1e) before (of time) Aramaic equivalent: la (לָא "not" H3809)
Usage: Occurs in 3967 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] before, [phrase] or else, ere, [phrase] except, ig(-norant), much, less, nay, neither, never, no((-ne), -r, (-thing)), ([idiom] as though...,(can-), for) not (out of), of nought, otherwise, out of, [phrase] surely, [phrase] as truly as, [phrase] of a truth, [phrase] verily, for want, [phrase] whether, without. See also: Genesis 2:5; Genesis 31:15; Exodus 4:9.
טֽוֹב
ṭôwb
H2896
"pleasant"
Adj
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means good or welfare, describing something that is beneficial or pleasing, like a good deed or a happy time. It is used in many contexts, including Genesis and Psalms. This word is often translated as 'good' or 'beautiful'.
Definition: adj 1) good, pleasant, agreeable 1a) pleasant, agreeable (to the senses) 1b) pleasant (to the higher nature) 1c) good, excellent (of its kind) 1d) good, rich, valuable in estimation 1e) good, appropriate, becoming 1f) better (comparative) 1g) glad, happy, prosperous (of man's sensuous nature) 1h) good understanding (of man's intellectual nature) 1i) good, kind, benign 1j) good, right (ethical) Aramaic equivalent: tav (טָב "fine" H2869)
Usage: Occurs in 521 OT verses. KJV: beautiful, best, better, bountiful, cheerful, at ease, [idiom] fair (word), (be in) favour, fine, glad, good (deed, -lier, -liest, -ly, -ness, -s), graciously, joyful, kindly, kindness, liketh (best), loving, merry, [idiom] most, pleasant, [phrase] pleaseth, pleasure, precious, prosperity, ready, sweet, wealth, welfare, (be) well(-favoured). See also: Genesis 1:4; Ruth 2:22; 2 Chronicles 3:8.
Study Notes — Proverbs 20:23
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Proverbs 20:23 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Proverbs 20:23
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Proverbs 20:23
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Proverbs 20:23
- Trapp's Commentary on Proverbs 20:23
- Cambridge Bible on Proverbs 20:23
- Whedon's Commentary on Proverbs 20:23
- Sermons on Proverbs 20:23
Context — Wine Is a Mocker
21An inheritance gained quickly will not be blessed in the end.
22Do not say, “I will avenge this evil!” Wait on the LORD, and He will save you.
23Unequal weights are detestable to the LORD, and dishonest scales are no good.
24A man’s steps are from the LORD, so how can anyone understand his own way? 25It is a trap for a man to dedicate something rashly, only later to reconsider his vows.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Proverbs 20:10 | Differing weights and unequal measures — both are detestable to the LORD. |
| 2 | Proverbs 11:1 | Dishonest scales are an abomination to the LORD, but an accurate weight is His delight. |
| 3 | Ezekiel 45:10 | You must use honest scales, a just ephah, and a just bath. |
| 4 | Hosea 12:7 | A merchant loves to defraud with dishonest scales in his hands. |
| 5 | Amos 8:5 | asking, “When will the New Moon be over, that we may sell grain? When will the Sabbath end, that we may market wheat? Let us reduce the ephah and increase the shekel; let us cheat with dishonest scales. |
Proverbs 20:23 Summary
Proverbs 20:23 teaches us that God hates it when we cheat or are dishonest, especially in business or when dealing with others. This means we should always try to be fair and truthful, just like the Bible says in Leviticus 19:35-36. When we use 'unequal weights' or 'dishonest scales', we are essentially cheating people, which is not pleasing to God. By being honest and fair, we show that we respect and honor God, and we can trust Him to guide us, as promised in Proverbs 3:5-6.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean for weights to be 'unequal' in Proverbs 20:23?
In the context of Proverbs 20:23, 'unequal weights' refers to the practice of using different weights for buying and selling, essentially cheating people by manipulating the scales, which is detestable to the Lord, as seen in Deuteronomy 25:13-16 and Micah 6:11.
How does this verse relate to honesty in business?
Proverbs 20:23 emphasizes the importance of honesty in business, warning against using 'dishonest scales', which is a form of cheating, and instead encourages fairness and integrity in all transactions, as taught in Leviticus 19:35-36 and Proverbs 11:1.
Is this verse only applicable to business owners or traders?
While Proverbs 20:23 specifically mentions 'weights' and 'scales', the principle of honesty and fairness applies to all areas of life, as seen in Proverbs 10:9, reminding us that integrity is essential for all believers, regardless of their profession or role.
What is the consequence of using dishonest scales according to the Bible?
The Bible warns that those who use dishonest scales will face judgment and punishment, as stated in Proverbs 11:1, and that the Lord detests such practices, as seen in Proverbs 20:23, emphasizing the importance of fairness and honesty in all aspects of life.
Reflection Questions
- What are some ways I can apply the principle of honesty and fairness in my daily life, whether in business or personal relationships?
- How can I ensure that I am treating others with fairness and integrity, especially in situations where it may be tempting to cheat or manipulate others?
- What are some potential consequences of using 'dishonest scales' in my life, and how can I avoid such pitfalls?
- In what ways can I demonstrate my commitment to honesty and fairness, even when it is difficult or unpopular?
Gill's Exposition on Proverbs 20:23
Divers weights [are] an abomination unto the Lord,.... [See comments on Proverbs 20:10]; which is here repeated for the further confirmation of it, and that it might be taken notice of and avoided;
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Proverbs 20:23
Divers weights are an abomination unto the LORD; and a false balance is not good. No JFB commentary on this verse.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Proverbs 20:23
Divers weights are an abomination unto the Lord; of which See Poole "". Is not good; is very wicked and hateful to God and men.
Trapp's Commentary on Proverbs 20:23
Proverbs 20:23 Divers weights [are] an abomination unto the LORD; and a false balance [is] not good.Ver. 23. Divers weights are an abomination.] In righting and revenging themselves men are apt to weigh things in an uneven balance, to be overpartial in their own cause, and to judge that a heinous offence in another, that is scarce blameworthy in themselves. It is best, therefore, to lay down all injuries at God’ s feet, who will be sure to give a "just recompense to every transgression," and will else turn his wrath from our enemies to us, for our diverse weights and false balances.
Cambridge Bible on Proverbs 20:23
23. See Proverbs 20:10, note.
Whedon's Commentary on Proverbs 20:23
23. Divers weights… abomination — Compare Proverbs 20:10, and Proverbs 11:1. For the expression not good, (a litotes,) comp. Proverbs 17:26; Proverbs 18:5.
Sermons on Proverbs 20:23
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
|
Dishonesty in Small Matters Inconsistent With Honesty in Anything by Charles Finney | Charles Finney emphasizes that dishonesty in small matters reflects a lack of true integrity in all aspects of life, arguing that one who is unjust in the least is unjust also in m |
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(2006 Conference) 12. the Balance of Truth-3 (Bible Study) by Zac Poonen | This sermon emphasizes the importance of finding balance in various aspects of the Christian life. It discusses the need for balancing evangelism with discipleship, ensuring that b |
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(Through the Bible) Proverbs 11-15 by Chuck Smith | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the importance of studying and applying the word of God. He encourages the listeners to not just be hearers of the word, but to also be doers |
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Jesus Is the Light of the World - Part 1 by Joshua Daniel | This sermon by Joshua Daniel emphasizes the importance of recognizing Jesus as the light of the world and the need for transparency and integrity in our lives. He challenges listen |
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A Spiritual Life by Joshua Daniel | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of not acquiring money through evil means such as deceit and false balance. He shares a heartbreaking story of a girl whose mo |
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February 7. 1678. Weights and Measures. by Jane Lead | Jane Lead preaches about the importance of weighing ourselves with the Golden Weight or Shekel of the Sanctuary, emphasizing that anything short of that divine standard will be una |
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Surely Something Must Be Amiss With the Scales! by C.H. Spurgeon | C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the necessity of honesty in all aspects of life, particularly in business and moral judgments, urging Christians to examine their scales and balances. He p |