Albert Barnes Commentary Proverbs 17:23

"A wicked man receiveth a bribe out of the bosom, To pervert the ways of justice." — Proverbs 17:23 (ASV)

The words “out of the bosom,” from the fold of the garment, rather than from the bag or belt in which money was usually carried, possibly point to the stealthiness with which the “gift” (or, bribe) is offered to the judge.