Proverbs 17:8
"A bribe is a charm in the sight of its owner; wherever he turns, he prospers"
bribe
This is the Hebrew word sohad, which means bribe, present, gift, reward, gratuity. The Old Testament law consistently outlaws the taking of bribes. Exodus 23:8; Deuteronomy 16:9; Exodus 23:8; Isaiah 1:23; 5:23; Micah 3:11; Deuteronomy 27:25; Ezekiel 22:12; Psalm 26:10, Proverbs 17:23
charm
This is two Hebrew words eben and hen, which literally read stone of favor. The idea is a charm or magic stone.
This verse seems to be a warning of the power of bribes and gifts of influence. The idea being that the person who is wielding a gift sees that all kinds of people will do what he wants if he gives them his gift. Solomon is warning us that you should not be one of the people whom the charm works on.
prospers
This is the Hebrew word sakal, which means wise, understanding, prosper. This verse is pointing out the idea that the bribe brings a level of prosperity and clarity to a situation. It costs a price and often reveals what we do not want to see. Do not be cheap enough to accept this charm.
Until tomorrow,
Gil Stieglitz