Bribery, the act of giving or receiving something of value in exchange for influence or action, is a practice that is consistently condemned throughout the Bible. It is seen as a corrupting force that undermines justice, integrity, and righteousness, which are foundational principles in biblical teaching.

Old Testament Teachings

The Old Testament provides numerous warnings against bribery, emphasizing its destructive impact on justice and society. In Exodus 23:8, the Israelites are instructed, "Do not accept a bribe, for a bribe blinds those who see and twists the words of the righteous." This verse highlights how bribery can distort judgment and lead to the perversion of justice, blinding even those who are otherwise wise and righteous.

Deuteronomy 16:19 further reinforces this message: "Do not deny justice or show partiality. Do not accept a bribe, for a bribe blinds the eyes of the wise and twists the words of the righteous." Here, the emphasis is on the impartiality required of judges and leaders, who must not allow personal gain to influence their decisions.

The book of Proverbs also contains several admonitions against bribery. Proverbs 17:23 states, "A wicked man takes a covert bribe to subvert the course of justice." This proverb underscores the moral corruption inherent in bribery, associating it with wickedness and the deliberate undermining of justice.

New Testament Insights

While the New Testament does not address bribery as explicitly as the Old Testament, the principles of integrity and righteousness continue to be upheld. The teachings of Jesus and the apostles emphasize honesty, fairness, and the importance of a pure heart.

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus teaches about the importance of sincerity and purity of heart, which are antithetical to the deceit and corruption associated with bribery. Matthew 5:8 states, "Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God." This beatitude suggests that those who maintain integrity and avoid corrupt practices like bribery will be rewarded with a closer relationship with God.

The apostle Paul, in his letters, also advocates for honesty and integrity. In 2 Corinthians 8:21, he writes, "For we are taking great care to do what is right, not only in the eyes of the Lord but also in the eyes of men." This commitment to doing what is right reflects a rejection of practices like bribery that compromise moral and ethical standards.

Consequences of Bribery

The Bible warns of both temporal and spiritual consequences for those who engage in bribery. In Isaiah 1:23, the prophet laments the state of Jerusalem, saying, "Your rulers are rebels, friends of thieves; they all love bribes and chase after gifts. They do not defend the cause of the fatherless, and the widow’s case does not come before them." This passage illustrates how bribery leads to societal decay, where leaders neglect their duties to protect the vulnerable and uphold justice.

Spiritually, bribery is seen as a sin that separates individuals from God. Psalm 15:1-5 describes the qualities of those who may dwell in the Lord's sanctuary, including one "who does not accept a bribe against the innocent." This suggests that engaging in bribery disqualifies one from enjoying the presence and favor of God.

Conclusion

The Bible's consistent condemnation of bribery underscores its dangers and the importance of maintaining integrity and justice. By adhering to biblical principles, individuals and societies can resist the corrupting influence of bribery and uphold the righteousness that God desires.