Bible Dictionaries
Honesty

Holman Bible Dictionary

Fairness and straightforwardness of conduct. The KJV frequently used honesty or cognates where modern translations use other words: honorable/honorably (Romans 13:13; Philippians 4:8; Hebrews 13:18; 1 Peter 2:12 ); noble (Luke 8:15; Romans 12:17 ); dignity (1 Timothy 2:2 ); properly (1 Thessalonians 4:12 ). Men of “honest report” (Acts 6:3 ) are men of good standing (NRSV).

Someone in the right in a law case may be described as honest (Exodus 23:7 NIV). Isaiah lamented that “no one goes to law honestly” ( Isaiah 59:4 NRSV). Honest or just balances, weights, and measures give fair and accurate measure ( Leviticus 19:36; Deuteronomy 25:15; Proverbs 16:11 ). Job 31:6 prays God's judgment to be weighed in an honest balance so God can know the person's integrity. Scripture often refers to honest or right speech ( Job 6:25; Proverbs 12:17; Proverbs 16:13; Proverbs 24:26 ). Those working on the Temple construction were known for their honest business dealings (2 Kings 12:15; 2 Kings 22:7 ).

Jacob claimed honesty (Genesis 30:33 ) but manipulated the breeding of Laban's flocks (Genesis 30:37-43 ). Jacob's sons repeatedly assured Joseph of their honesty (Genesis 42:11 ,Genesis 42:11,42:19 ,Genesis 42:19,42:31 ,Genesis 42:31,42:33-34 ), never guessing that their brother knew their deceptive natures all too well (Genesis 37:31-33 ).