Bribery, the act of giving or receiving something of value in exchange for influence or action, is consistently condemned in the Bible as a practice that perverts justice and undermines righteousness. The Scriptures provide numerous warnings against the acceptance and giving of bribes, highlighting the moral and spiritual dangers associated with this corrupt practice.

Old Testament Teachings

The Old Testament is replete with admonitions against bribery, emphasizing its destructive impact on justice and society. In the Law of Moses, God explicitly commands His people to avoid bribery. Exodus 23:8 states, "Do not accept a bribe, for a bribe blinds those who see and twists the words of the righteous." This verse underscores the corrupting influence of bribes, which can distort judgment and lead to injustice.

Deuteronomy 16:19 further reinforces this command: "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 those in positions of authority and the way bribery can compromise their integrity.

The wisdom literature also addresses the folly of bribery. Proverbs 17:23 warns, "A wicked man takes a covert bribe to subvert the course of justice." This proverb highlights the secretive nature of bribery and its role in undermining justice, portraying it as an act of wickedness.

Prophetic Condemnation

The prophets of Israel were vocal in their condemnation of bribery, often linking it to the broader social injustices of their time. Isaiah 1:23 laments the corruption in Jerusalem, stating, "Your rulers are rebels, friends of thieves. They all love bribes and chase after gifts. They do not defend the fatherless, and the widow’s case never comes before them." This passage illustrates how bribery contributes to the neglect of the vulnerable and the breakdown of societal justice.

Micah 3:11 also criticizes the leaders of Israel for their reliance on bribes: "Her leaders judge for a bribe, her priests teach for a price, and her prophets practice divination for money. Yet they lean upon the LORD, saying, 'Is not the LORD among us? No disaster will come upon us.'" The prophet exposes the hypocrisy of those who claim to serve God while engaging in corrupt practices.

New Testament Perspective

In the New Testament, the theme of justice and integrity continues, with an emphasis on the inner transformation brought about by faith in Christ. While the New Testament does not address bribery as explicitly as the Old Testament, the principles of honesty, fairness, and impartiality are upheld.

The apostle Paul, in his letters, emphasizes the importance of living a life above reproach. In 2 Corinthians 8:21, he writes, "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 integrity and transparency is antithetical to the practice of bribery.

Moral and Spiritual Implications

Bribery is not merely a legal or ethical issue but a spiritual one. It reflects a heart that prioritizes personal gain over truth and justice. The Bible's consistent denunciation of bribery serves as a reminder of the call to live righteously and to uphold justice in all dealings. The folly of bribery lies in its ability to corrupt the soul, distort justice, and ultimately separate individuals from the righteousness that God desires.