Bible Encyclopedias
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia
Judge
Resource Toolbox
|
Additional Links
|
The first duty of a judge was to execute absolute justice, showing the same impartiality to rich and poor, to Jew and foreigner. He was forbidden to accept bribes or to wrest the judgment of the poor (Exodus 23:6-8 ; Deuteronomy 16:19 ). He must not let himself be swayed by popular opinion, or unduly favor the poor (Exodus 23:2 , Exodus 23:3 ).
The court was open to the public (Exodus 18:13 ; Rth 4:1, Rth 4:2). Each party presented his view of the case to the judge (Deuteronomy 1:16 ; Deuteronomy 25:1 ). Possibly the accused appeared in court clad in mourning (Zechariah 3:3 ). The accuser stood on the right hand of the accused (Zechariah 3:1 ; Psalm 109:6 ). Sentence was pronounced after the hearing of the case, and the judgment carried out (Joshua 7:24 , Joshua 7:25 ). The only evidence considered by the court was that given by the witnesses. In criminal cases, not less than two witnesses were necessary (Deuteronomy 19:15 ; Numbers 35:30 ; Deuteronomy 17:6 ; compare Matthew 18:16 ; 2 Corinthians 13:1 ; 1 Timothy 5:19 ). In cases other than criminal the oath (see OATH ) was applied (Exodus 22:11 ; compare Hebrews 6:16 ). The lot was sometimes appealed to (Joshua 7:14-18 ), especially in private disputes (Proverbs 18:18 ), but this was exceptional. When the law was not quite definite, recourse was had to the Divine oracle (Leviticus 24:12 ; Numbers 15:34 ).
Copyright Statement
These files are public domain and were generously provided by the folks at WordSearch Software.
Bibliography Information
Orr, James, M.A., D.D. General Editor. Entry for 'Judge'. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia. https://www.studylight.org/encyclopedias/isb/j/judge.html. 1915.