Translations
Original
Notes
judges and officials: The use of both words together may mean that they had similar roles. The word officials usually refers to public leaders in general. Here, however, it likely refers to people who helped carry out the law. They may have served as administrators of justice or as officers who enforced the law.
with righteous judgment: This phrase means judging by a clear and just standard. Decisions were to be based on what was right. They were not to be changed because of pressure from the public or from private interests.
The community of Israel, like any nation, needed different kinds of leaders. These leaders helped keep the people united and guided them in the right direction.
The Lord told Moses to set up a proper system of leadership. He also gave clear standards for choosing leaders and explained the duties of each role.
Glossary
Archaeology and the Bible Biblical Concept of Law Courts and Trials Covenant Deuteronomy, Book of Law of Moses Samuel (Person)
Topics
Bribery: General Scriptures Concerning Cities: Provided with Judges Courts of Justice: Inferior Court in all Cities Courts of Justice: Inferior Court: Held at the Gates Courts of Justice: Provided With: Judges Courts of Justice: Provided With: Officers Gates of Cities: Courts of Justice Held At Gates: Holding Courts of Justice Judge: Character of, and Precepts Relating To Justice: General Scriptures Concerning Justice: To be Done in Executing Judgment Magistrates: should Judge Righteously Rulers: Character and Qualifications of Rulers: Duties of The Jews: had Courts of Justice