16There are six things the LORD hates, seven that are detestable to him:17haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood,18a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are quick to rush into evil,19a false witness who pours out lies and a man who stirs up dissension among brothers.
As an expert in biblical studies and theology, I've extensively researched and delved into various religious texts, including the Bible. The passage you've referenced comes from the Book of Proverbs in the Old Testament, specifically Proverbs 6:16-19. This passage is often cited in discussions about moral conduct and the things that are detestable or displeasing to the LORD.
The passage enumerates seven things that the LORD hates or finds detestable. Each item listed provides insights into ethical behavior and the attributes that are contrary to righteous living:
- Haughty Eyes: This refers to arrogance, pride, and a sense of superiority that leads to looking down upon others. It's an attitude of disdain or self-importance.
- A Lying Tongue: Deception and falsehood are condemned, highlighting the importance of truthfulness and honesty in one's speech.
- Hands that Shed Innocent Blood: This condemns violence, especially unjust killing or harming of innocent individuals.
- A Heart that Devises Wicked Schemes: It addresses the intent and motivations behind actions, focusing on the evil thoughts and intentions that lead to wrongdoing.
- Feet that are Quick to Rush into Evil: Hastiness in pursuing sinful actions or a readiness to engage in wrongdoing is criticized here.
- A False Witness Who Pours Out Lies: Similar to a lying tongue, this highlights the moral wrongness of bearing false witness against others or spreading falsehoods.
- A Person Who Stirs Up Dissension Among Brothers: Creating conflict or division among people, especially within a community or family, is condemned as harmful and detestable.
These verses emphasize the importance of virtues such as humility, truthfulness, righteousness, and peaceful relationships. They offer guidance on ethical behavior and moral conduct, outlining behaviors that are displeasing to the divine and detrimental to the community's harmony.
Studying and understanding such passages within their cultural, historical, and religious contexts is crucial in comprehending the moral teachings and ethical standards espoused within the Bible.
