Is Deception Ever Justified?
In this article, you will learn how Genesis 37:31 contradicts Proverbs 12:22, Ephesians 4:25, Colossians 3:9, Proverbs 19:5, Exodus 20:16, Leviticus 19:11 and Zechariah 8:16. Find the translations at the bottom of the page..
The story of Joseph's brothers in Genesis 37:31 presents a puzzling moral dilemma. Their act of deceit—smearing goat's blood on Joseph's coat to trick their father, Jacob, into believing his beloved son was dead—sets a troubling precedent of deceit among family members. This narrative prompts us to consider how it aligns with other biblical teachings that emphasize honesty and integrity.
When we look at other verses, a clear contradiction emerges. Proverbs 12:22 tells us that lying lips are an abomination to the LORD. This sharp condemnation highlights the severity with which deceit is viewed. Similarly, Ephesians 4:25 encourages us to put away falsehood and speak truthfully, creating a stark contrast to the brothers' dishonesty in attempting to manipulate their father's emotions.
Colossians 3:9 warns against lying to one another, emphasizing the importance of trust in relationships. This directive counters the actions in Genesis, where betrayal is disguised as truth. Proverbs 19:5 warns that a false witness shall not go unpunished, suggesting that deceit carries consequences, although these are not immediately apparent in Joseph's story.
The broader ethical framework continues with Exodus 20:16 and its commandment against bearing false witness. This rule underpins the Judeo-Christian moral code, yet the brothers in Genesis seem to disregard it entirely. Furthermore, Leviticus 19:11 instructs not to lie or deceive, reinforcing a culture of honesty that the Genesis tale seems to ignore. Zechariah 8:16 insists on speaking truth to one’s neighbor, a practice that not only fosters community but also aligns with divine law.
The biblical narratives often challenge us with complex human behaviors, prompting a deeper exploration into whether ends justify means or if truth should always remain unspoiled. Given these scriptural contradictions, we are left to ponder: Is there ever a valid reason to deceive?
# | Verse | Translation |
---|---|---|
1. | Genesis 37:31 | And they took Joseph's coat, and killed a kid of the goats, and dipped the coat in the blood; |
2. | Proverbs 12:22 | Lying lips [are] abomination to the LORD: but they that deal truly [are] his delight. |
3. | Ephesians 4:25 | Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another. |
4. | Colossians 3:9 | Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds; |
5. | Proverbs 19:5 | A false witness shall not be unpunished, and [he that] speaketh lies shall not escape. [unpunished: Heb. held innocent] |
6. | Exodus 20:16 | Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour. |
7. | Leviticus 19:11 | Ye shall not steal, neither deal falsely, neither lie one to another. |
8. | Zechariah 8:16 | These [are] the things that ye shall do; Speak ye every man the truth to his neighbour; execute the judgment of truth and peace in your gates: [execute...: Heb. judge truth, and the judgment of peace] |