Ethical Foundations Thou Shalt Not Take Bribes

By Claudius Brown

Bribery is the act of offering, giving, receiving, or soliciting something of value (such as money, gifts, or favors) with the intent to influence the actions or decisions of an individual in a position of authority or trust, often in a dishonest or unlawful manner.

Bribery, as described in the Bible, is a multifaceted ethical issue that intertwines with themes of justice, morality, and the consequences of human actions. The Scriptures provide valuable insights into the nature of bribery, warning against its pernicious effects on individuals and society as a whole.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Claudius Brown
• Release date: Jan 8, 2024
• ISBN: 9798224906925

Claudius Brown

This book is about me and the struggles I go through to survive in this world. I hope that those who read my book will be encouraged to not quit on life due to the struggles they are going through.

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Introduction

1. Definition of bribery

Bribery is the act of offering, giving, receiving, or soliciting something of value (such as money, gifts, or favors) with the intent to influence the actions or decisions of an individual in a position of authority or trust, often in a dishonest or unlawful manner.

Bribery, as described in the Bible, is a multifaceted ethical issue that intertwines with themes of justice, morality, and the consequences of human actions. The Scriptures provide valuable insights into the nature of bribery, warning against its pernicious effects on individuals and society as a whole.

The Bible unequivocally condemns bribery in numerous passages, emphasizing the corrupting influence it can have on the hearts and minds of those involved. Proverbs 17:23 (NIV) states, The wicked accept bribes in secret to pervert the course of justice. This highlights the clandestine nature of bribery, often conducted in secrecy to manipulate the course of justice, compromising the very foundation of a fair and equitable society.

In Deuteronomy 16:19 (NIV), the biblical perspective on bribery is clear: Do not pervert justice or show partiality. Do not accept a bribe, for a bribe blinds the eyes of the wise and twists the words of the innocent. This passage underscores the detrimental impact of bribery on justice, implying that it distorts the perception of even the wise, leading them astray from righteous judgment.

The New Testament also addresses the issue of bribery. Acts 24:26 (NIV) narrates a situation involving the Roman governor Felix and the Apostle Paul: At the same time, he was hoping that Paul would offer him a bribe, so he sent for him frequently and talked with him. This verse illustrates how bribery can be sought as a means of personal gain by those in authority, revealing the corrupting influence on both the giver and the receiver.

The consequences of bribery are dire, as highlighted in Ecclesiastes 7:7 (NIV): Extortion turns a wise person into a fool, and a bribe corrupts the heart. This emphasizes the moral decay that bribery inflicts upon individuals, transforming the wise into fools and corrupting the very core of their being.

The story of Judas Iscariot in the New Testament provides a poignant example of the betrayal facilitated by bribery. In Matthew 26:14-16 (NIV), Judas agrees to betray Jesus for thirty pieces of silver, showcasing how the allure of material gain can lead to betrayal, dishonor, and ultimately tragic consequences.

Bribery's impact extends beyond individual actions to societal implications. Isaiah 1:23 (NIV) delivers a strong rebuke: Your rulers are rebels, partners with thieves; they all love bribes and chase after gifts. They do not defend the cause of the fatherless; the widow's case does not come before them. This verse links bribery to the neglect of justice, portraying a society where leaders prioritize personal gain over the well-being of the vulnerable.

In conclusion, the biblical perspective on bribery is unequivocal in its condemnation of this unethical practice. Through various passages, the Bible underscores the corrupting influence of bribery on justice, wisdom, and the moral fabric of individuals and societies. The lessons derived from these scriptures serve as timeless guidance, urging individuals to resist the allure of bribery and uphold principles of honesty, justice, and integrity in all aspects of life.

2. The biblical commandment against taking bribes

The biblical commandment against taking bribes serves as a foundational ethical principle, emphasizing the importance of integrity, justice, and the equitable treatment of all individuals. This commandment is not explicitly stated as a standalone directive, but its essence is woven throughout various passages, reflecting the divine expectation for individuals to resist the corrupting influence of bribes.

Exodus 23:8 (NIV) provides a clear instruction against bribery, stating, Do not accept a bribe, for a bribe blinds those who see and twists the words of the innocent. This verse encapsulates the essence of the commandment, cautioning against the acceptance of bribes due to their blinding effect on judgment and their potential to pervert the truth.

Deuteronomy 16:19 (NIV) reinforces this commandment within the broader context of justice: Do not pervert justice or show partiality. Do not accept a bribe, for a bribe blinds the eyes of the wise and twists the words of the innocent. Here, the connection between bribery and the distortion of justice is explicitly highlighted, emphasizing the commandment as a safeguard against the erosion of righteous judgment.

Proverbs, renowned for its wisdom literature, offers insights into the detrimental impact of bribery on moral character. Proverbs 15:27 (NIV) declares, The greedy bring ruin to their households, but the one who hates bribes will live. This proverb underscores the contrast between those motivated by greed, often associated with accepting bribes, and those who reject such dishonest gain, highlighting the promise of a righteous and fulfilling life.

The New Testament also echoes the prohibition against bribery. Acts 8:18-20 (NIV) recounts an incident involving Simon the Sorcerer, who sought to purchase the ability to bestow the Holy Spirit. Peter's response makes it clear that spiritual gifts are not commodities to be bought or sold, emphasizing the incompatibility of bribery with divine principles.

The overarching theme of justice intertwined with the commandment against bribery is evident in Isaiah 33:15-16 (NIV): Those who walk righteously and speak what is right, who reject gain from extortion and keep their hands from accepting bribes, who stop their ears against plots of murder and shut their eyes against contemplating evil—they are the ones who will dwell on the heights, whose refuge will be the mountain fortress. Their bread will be supplied, and water will not fail them. This passage emphasizes the blessings reserved for those who uphold righteousness, reject bribery, and remain steadfast in their commitment to justice.

The consequences of violating the commandment against taking bribes are portrayed vividly in the story of Achan in Joshua 7. Achan's disobedience in taking forbidden spoils led to severe consequences for both him and the Israelite community. This narrative underscores the serious repercussions of succumbing to the allure of dishonest gain, serving as a cautionary tale for those tempted to compromise their integrity.

The biblical commandment against taking bribes, while not explicitly enumerated as such, resonates through the scriptures with consistent admonitions to resist the corrupting influence of bribes. The emphasis on justice, integrity, and the consequences of bribery serves as a timeless guide for individuals seeking to align their actions with divine principles. In upholding this commandment, believers are encouraged to contribute to a society built on fairness, righteousness, and unwavering commitment to truth.

Chapter 1: Biblical Perspective

3. Exploration of biblical passages condemning bribery

The biblical commandment against taking bribes serves as a foundational ethical principle, emphasizing the importance of integrity, justice, and the equitable treatment of all individuals. This commandment is not explicitly stated as a standalone directive, but its essence is woven throughout various passages, reflecting the divine expectation for individuals to resist the corrupting influence of bribes.

Exodus 23:8 (NIV) provides a clear instruction against bribery, stating, Do not accept a bribe, for a bribe blinds those who see and twists the words of the innocent. This verse encapsulates the essence of the commandment, cautioning against the acceptance of bribes due to their blinding effect on judgment and their potential to pervert the truth.

Deuteronomy 16:19 (NIV) reinforces this commandment within the broader context of justice: Do not pervert justice or show partiality. Do not accept a bribe, for a bribe blinds the eyes of the wise and twists the words of the innocent. Here, the connection between bribery and the distortion of justice is explicitly highlighted, emphasizing the commandment as a safeguard against the erosion of righteous judgment.

Proverbs, renowned for its wisdom literature, offers insights into the detrimental impact of bribery on moral character. Proverbs 15:27 (NIV) declares, The greedy bring ruin to their households, but the one who hates bribes will live. This proverb underscores the contrast between those motivated by