Proverbs 21:3 (BSB)

To do righteousness and justice is more desirable to the LORD than sacrifice.

From Proverbs 21. Also in the ESV.

Commentary on Proverbs 21:3

• Matthew Henry (Presbyterian), Matthew Henry's Complete Commentary on Proverbs 21:3: Here, 1. It is implied that many deceive themselves with a conceit that, if they offer sacrifice, that will excuse them from doing justice, and procure them a dispensation for their unrighteousness; and this makes their way seem right, Pro 21:2. We have fasted, Isa 58:3. I have peace-offerings with me, Pro 7:14. 2.
• John Gill (Reformed Baptist), Exposition of the Old and New Testaments on Proverbs 21:3: To do justice and judgment,.... The moral duties of religion, what is holy, just, and good, which the law requires; what is agreeably to both tables, piety towards God, and justice to men; that which is just and right between man and man; which, especially if done from right principles and with right views, is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice; not than any...
• Jamieson-Fausset-Brown (Reformed), Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible on Proverbs 21:3: (Compare Psa 50:7-15; Isa 1:11, Isa 1:17).
• Keil & Delitzsch (Lutheran), Biblical Commentary on the Old Testament on Proverbs 21:3: Pro 21:3 3 To practice justice and right Hath with Jahve the pre-eminence above sacrifice. We have already (vol. i. p. 42) shown how greatly this depreciation of the works of the ceremonial cultus, as compared with the duties of moral obedience, is in the spirit of the Chokma; cf. also at Pro 15:8. Prophecy also gives its testimony, e.g., Hos 6:7, according to which also here (cf.