King James Version
What Does Exodus 23:2 Mean?
“Thou shalt not follow a multitude to do evil; neither shalt thou speak in a cause to decline after many to wrest judgment: speak: Heb. answer”
Context
1
Thou shalt not raise a false report: put not thine hand with the wicked to be an unrighteous witness. raise: or, receive
2
Thou shalt not follow a multitude to do evil; neither shalt thou speak in a cause to decline after many to wrest judgment: speak: Heb. answer
3
Neither shalt thou countenance a poor man in his cause.
4
If thou meet thine enemy's ox or his ass going astray, thou shalt surely bring it back to him again.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(2) **Thou shalt not follow a multitude to do evil . . . —**It is perhaps true that the offence especially condemned is joining with a majority in an unrighteous judgment; but the words of the precept extend much further than this, and forbid our being carried away by numbers or popularity in any case. *Vox populi vox Dei *is a favourite maxim with many, but Scripture nowhere sanctions it. Job boasts that he did not fear a great multitude (Job 31:34). David says that the “ten thousands of the people set themselves against him round about” (Psalm 3:6). The prophets had always the multitude against them. “Strait is the gate, and narrow is the way,” said our blessed Lord, “which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.” But ‘wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat*” *Matthew 7:13-14). We must be prepared to face unpopularity if we would walk in accordance with the Law of God.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Exodus. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Exodus 23:2 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Exodus 23:2
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge