Charles Ellicott Commentary Exodus 23:7

"Keep thee far from a false matter; and the innocent and righteous slay thou not: for I will not justify the wicked." — Exodus 23:7 (ASV)

Keep thee far from a false matter. —A false accusation seems to be intended. If we make one, it may result in an innocent man’s death, and we will be murderers; God will then assuredly hold us guilty.