Proverbs 20:10 (KJV)

What does Proverbs 20:10 mean?

Proverbs 20:10 says that the LORD detests dishonest standards used in trade. “Divers” means different: the verse pictures a person keeping unequal weights and measures, so that the amount given or received can be changed to that person’s advantage.

A merchant could use stones on a balance to weigh goods, and containers to measure things such as grain or oil. The proverb names both kinds of standard, bringing weighing and measuring under the same judgment.

The Hebrew behind Proverbs 20:10

• “weights” — אֶבֶן (even): This word means “stone.” The word is repeated in the Hebrew, giving a picture of one stone and another stone used as unequal weights.
• “measures” — אֵיפָה (ephah): This word refers to a measure of capacity, often used for dry goods. Like the word for “weights,” it is repeated, suggesting one measure used alongside another.
• “abomination” — תּוֹעֵבָה (toʿevah): This word describes something regarded as detestable. The KJV’s strong wording shows that the LORD’s judgment is not merely a preference for accurate tools.

Why Proverbs 20:10 matters

• Both practices receive the same judgment. “Both of them are alike” applies the word “abomination” to unequal weights and unequal measures together.
• The proverb places trade within the LORD’s concern. Its final phrase, “to the LORD,” identifies whose judgment is being expressed.
• Proverbs 20:23 returns to the image of unequal weights and calls a false balance “not good.” That later wording reinforces the connection between different standards and a misleading scale.