Proverbs 20:10, 23 Divers weights, and divers measures, both of them are alike abomination to the LORD. Divers weights are an abomination unto the LORD; and a false balance is not good.
‘Divers weights, and divers measures.’ Literally: a heavier or standard stone/ephah for buying, and a lighter stone/ephah for selling. Weights and measures were tools for trade: The first was the standard, correct and honest. The second was less, used deceitfully to cheat others. Unscrupulous merchants would buy with the heavy weight and sell with the light weight, thus profiting by dishonesty.
“A false balance is abomination to the LORD: but a just weight is his delight” (11:1). “A just weight and balance are the LORD’s: all the weights of the bag are his work” (16:11). God commanded honest weights and measures, forbidding deception (Deut. 25:13-15). God demands integrity in all transactions, not just in private morality.
‘Abomination to the LORD.’ Using deceitful weights is more than unethical; it is detestable to God. God’s concern is justice, honesty, and fairness in human interactions.
‘To the LORD’ What men may value or overlook – profit, advantage, or clever manipulation – can still be hateful to God. “That which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God” (Luke 16:15). God evaluates motives, methods, and heart integrity, not just outward success or appearance.
Integrity matters in all dealings – weights, measures, and moral choices. Deception is an abomination to God, regardless of man’s approval or profit. True righteousness is consistent in private and public life, honouring God in all actions.
God demands fairness and honesty. What seems small or advantageous to humans – like cheating in trade – is detestable in God’s sight. Integrity in everyday actions reflects reverence for Him.
Living the Word 