What does “Thou shalt not raise a false report” mean in this passage?

“Thou shalt not raise a false report” means you must not start or spread lies about someone, whether in court or in everyday talk. It includes making up accusations, twisting the truth, or passing on gossip you do not really know is true. God is protecting a person’s life, reputation, and safety. This command also warns against joining others to attack someone’s name. Instead of enjoying or believing bad reports quickly, God calls his people to be careful, fair, and kind with what they say about others.

What does it mean not to follow a multitude to do evil?

Not following a multitude to do evil means you should not join in wrongdoing just because many people are doing it or saying it is right. This applies in court, where judges must not let crowds or powerful voices push them into unfair decisions. It also reaches into daily life, where common habits or public opinion can be wrong. God calls each person to listen to truth and conscience, even if that means standing apart from the crowd when the crowd is heading the wrong way.

Why does this passage warn against showing favour to the poor or against the poor in judgment?

This passage warns both against bending judgment in favour of a poor person and against twisting judgment against a poor person. God cares deeply that justice is truly fair. A judge should not excuse wrong just because someone is poor, and should also not let the poor be crushed because they have less power or money. The case itself must be judged by what is right, not by who is rich or poor. God reminds his people that the poor are their own neighbours and must not be wronged.

What is the point of helping an enemy’s ox or donkey in this passage?

Helping an enemy’s ox or donkey shows that God expects his people to do good even to those who dislike them. If you see your enemy’s animal lost, you must bring it back. If you see the animal fallen under a load, you must help, even when you would rather walk away. This teaches kindness that goes beyond feelings and past hurts. If God wants such care shown to an enemy’s animal, it hints even more strongly that we should seek our enemy’s good, not their harm.

What does “keep thee far from a false matter” teach about justice?

“Keep thee far from a false matter” teaches that God’s people should not only avoid open lies, but also stay well away from anything that smells of a crooked case. This warns judges, witnesses, and everyone else not to support shaky accusations, half-truths, or schemes that might hurt the innocent. God adds, “the innocent and righteous slay thou not,” showing how serious this is. Wrong judgment can lead to great harm, and God says he will not clear those who twist justice against others.

Why does God forbid taking gifts or bribes in this passage?

God forbids taking gifts, or bribes, because they can blind even wise people and twist the words of those who usually speak what is right. When a judge or leader accepts a gift from someone involved in a case, it becomes very hard to stay fair. The heart leans toward the giver, often without noticing. This command protects courts and leaders from hidden pressure. By refusing such gifts, they guard their own hearts and help keep justice clean and trustworthy for everyone.

What does this passage mean by not oppressing a stranger?

Not oppressing a stranger means you must not take advantage of someone from outside your own people, especially in courts or daily dealings. Strangers often lack support and feel fear and loneliness. God reminds Israel that they once lived as strangers in Egypt and know what that feels like. Because they know “the heart of a stranger,” they should show fairness and kindness instead of adding to that person’s troubles. This command shows God’s care for those who are weak or easily overlooked.

What does this passage show about God’s character and what he values?

This passage shows that God loves truth, hates lies, and cares deeply about fair treatment for everyone, especially the weak and outsiders. He values judges who refuse to be swayed by crowds, wealth, or sympathy that ignores right and wrong. He also values quiet acts of kindness, like helping an enemy’s animal or treating a stranger fairly. Together these laws reveal that God is both just and merciful, and he calls his people to reflect his character in how they speak, judge, and act.

How can someone apply the teaching of this passage in everyday life today?

You can apply this passage by being very careful with your words, refusing to gossip, and not spreading things you do not truly know are fair and true. You can choose not to join in when a group is doing wrong, even if it costs you. In work or family decisions, aim to be fair, not favouring or crushing someone because of their position. When you have a chance, do practical good even for people you do not like. And treat newcomers and outsiders with patience and kindness, remembering they may feel alone.

Exod.23.1

Exodus 23:1

KJV GOD

Thou shalt not raise a false report: put not thine hand with the wicked to be an unrighteous witness.

Cross References

No cross references available for this verse.