Proverbs 19:28 An ungodly witness scorns judgment: and the mouth of the wicked devours iniquity.
‘An ungodly witness scornes judgment.’ An ungodly or false witness rejects truth and justice. Such a person mockingly despises legal and moral standards, refusing to respect or uphold righteousness. The term “witness” implies someone who gives testimony; a false witness perverts justice, often to harm the innocent or advance personal gain (Ex. 20:16; Pro. 6:19).
This warns against dishonesty in courts, public affairs, or even personal testimony. A scorner of judgment is an enemy of both human justice and God’s righteousness.
‘The mouth of the wicked devours iniquity.’ The imagery is vivid: the wicked swallow sin as if it were a delicacy, taking delight in wrongdoing. Their speech propagates iniquity: lies, slander, deceit, and corrupt counsel. Unlike someone who restrains harmful words, the wicked actively consume and spread sin through speech (10:20; Ps. 52:2-4). The wicked not only act sinfully but also promote it through words, undermining justice and leading others into evil.
This verse highlights two aspects of wickedness: the rejection of justice, where the false witness scorns moral and legal standards. Delight in sin, where the wicked speak and consume iniquity as if it were a pleasure.
God warns that corrupt testimony and malicious speech have serious consequences. Upholding truth and justice is foundational to righteous living.
Wickedness is active, not passive: it disrespects law and judgment and feeds on sin. Wisdom calls the righteous to honour justice and guard their speech against spreading iniquity.
To be continued…
Living the Word 