Wherefore now let the fear of the LORD be upon you; take heed and do it: for there is no iniquity with the LORD our God, nor respect of persons, nor taking of gifts.

2 CHRONICLES 19:7KJV
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2 Chronicles 19:7 (KJV)

What does 2 Chronicles 19:7 mean?

2 Chronicles 19:7 urges those judging or leading in Israel to act with deep respect for God, warning them to be careful and upright because God Himself is completely just—He shows no favoritism and cannot be bribed. The verse stresses that God’s standards are perfect, so those who serve Him must reflect that fairness and integrity.

Jehoshaphat, king of Judah, is speaking to the judges he has appointed throughout the land. He reminds them that their work is done before God, not just people, and that they must judge honestly because God does not tolerate injustice, partiality, or corruption. This comes as part of Jehoshaphat’s reforms to restore justice and true worship in Judah.

The Hebrew behind 2 Chronicles 19:7

  • "fear" (פַּחַד, pachad): This word means a deep awe or reverence, not just being scared. Jehoshaphat is calling the judges to let a sense of God’s greatness and authority shape how they act.
  • "iniquity" (עַוְלָה, avlah): This word refers to injustice or wrongdoing. The verse emphasizes that God never acts unjustly, so those representing Him must also avoid any unfairness.
  • "respect" (מַשּׂוֹא, massa) "persons" (פָּנִים, panim): Together, these words mean showing favoritism or giving special treatment based on who someone is. The verse insists that God judges everyone equally, regardless of status.
  • "taking" (מַשָּׂא, massa) "gifts" (שֹׁחַד, shochad): This phrase refers to accepting bribes. The verse makes clear that God cannot be influenced by gifts, so neither should His judges.

Why 2 Chronicles 19:7 matters

  • This verse corrects any idea that God can be swayed by status, wealth, or influence; it highlights God’s absolute fairness.
  • The verse sets a high standard for anyone in authority, reminding leaders that their actions must reflect God’s character.
  • In the context of Jehoshaphat’s reforms, this verse shows the importance of justice and integrity in restoring a nation’s spiritual health.

Where else these words appear

“gifts” Hebrew H7810 · used in 21 verses

  • Exodus 23:8 And thou shalt take no gift: for the gift blindeth the wise, and perverteth the words of the righteous.
  • 2 Kings 16:8 And Ahaz took the silver and gold that was found in the house of the LORD, and in the treasures of the king's house, and sent it for a present to the king of Assyria.
  • Proverbs 21:14 A gift in secret pacifieth anger: and a reward in the bosom strong wrath.

“fear” Hebrew H6343 · used in 48 verses

  • Genesis 31:42 Except the God of my father, the God of Abraham, and the fear of Isaac, had been with me, surely thou hadst sent me away now empty. God hath seen mine affliction and the labour of my hands, and rebuked thee yesternight.
  • Job 4:14 Fear came upon me, and trembling, which made all my bones to shake.
  • Psalms 119:120 My flesh trembleth for fear of thee; and I am afraid of thy judgments.

“iniquity” Hebrew H5766 · used in 51 verses

  • Leviticus 19:15 Ye shall do no unrighteousness in judgment: thou shalt not respect the person of the poor, nor honour the person of the mighty: but in righteousness shalt thou judge thy neighbour.
  • Job 34:10 Therefore hearken unto me, ye men of understanding: far be it from God, that he should do wickedness; and from the Almighty, that he should commit iniquity.
  • Isaiah 59:3 For your hands are defiled with blood, and your fingers with iniquity; your lips have spoken lies, your tongue hath muttered perverseness.