Exodus 23:7

a false matter i.e., as the context shews, a case that can only be carried through with the help of false statements, and false witnesses.

slay thou not by false accusations, false witness, or an unjust sentence. The words are addressed indifferently to accuser, witness, and judge. Cf. Deuteronomy 27:25; Psalms 94:6; Psalms 94:21.

for I do not justify the wicked I do not justify the man who is in the wrong (v.1b), and who accuses the innocent unjustly; and therefore the judges should act similarly. LXX. however read, and thou shalt not justify the wicked, which may be the original reading (Bä.); cf. Deuteronomy 25:1.