7 Keep thee far from a false matter; and the innocent and righteous slay thou not: for I will not justify the wicked.
7 Have nothing to do with a false charge and do not put an innocent or honest person to death, for I will not acquit the guilty.
7 Keep far from a false charge, and do not kill the innocent and righteous, for I will not acquit the wicked.
7 "Stay clear of false accusations. Don't contribute to the death of innocent and good people. I don't let the wicked off the hook.
7 Keep yourself far from a false matter; do not kill the innocent and righteous. For I will not justify the wicked.
7 "Be sure never to charge anyone falsely with evil. Never sentence an innocent or blameless person to death, for I never declare a guilty person to be innocent.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Exodus 23:7
Commentary on Exodus 23:1-9
(Read Exodus 23:1-9)
In the law of Moses are very plain marks of sound moral feeling, and of true political wisdom. Every thing in it is suited to the desired and avowed object, the worship of one only God, and the separation of Israel from the pagan world. Neither parties, friends, witnesses, nor common opinions, must move us to lessen great faults, to aggravate small ones, excuse offenders, accuse the innocent, or misrepresent any thing.