Exodus 18:22 - Let them judge the people at all times. It shall be that every great matter they shall bring to you, but every small matter they shall judge themselves. So shall it be easier for you, and they shall share the load with you.
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What does "Exodus 18:22" mean?
This verse, Exodus 18:22, describes a system of delegation of judicial authority. Let's break it down:
"Let them judge the people at all times.": This means the newly appointed judges (chosen from capable, God-fearing men of integrity, as mentioned in earlier verses) would be constantly available to hear legal cases and disputes amongst the people. This shows the importance of justice being consistently accessible.
"It shall be that every great matter they shall bring to you...": Cases that were particularly complex, difficult to resolve, or had significant implications for the community would be referred back to Moses, who was the highest authority and judge.
"...but every small matter they shall judge themselves.": The lesser disputes, those that were simpler to adjudicate, would be handled by these judges independently.
"So shall it be easier for you, and they shall share the load with you.": The purpose of this delegation was to lighten Moses' burden. By allowing others to handle the routine legal matters, Moses would have more time and energy to focus on the most important issues facing the nation, such as spiritual leadership, interpreting God's law, and dealing with national crises. It also fostered a sense of shared responsibility and leadership within the community.
In essence, the verse highlights the wisdom of delegation and the importance of a well-structured legal system to ensure efficient and fair administration of justice. It prevents one person from being overwhelmed and empowers others within the community.
Exodus 18:22 - Let them judge the people at all times. It shall be that every great matter they shall bring to you, but every small matter they shall judge themselves. So shall it be easier for you, and they shall share the load with you.
What does "Exodus 18:22" mean?
This verse, Exodus 18:22, describes a system of delegation of judicial authority. Let's break it down:
"Let them judge the people at all times.": This means the newly appointed judges (chosen from capable, God-fearing men of integrity, as mentioned in earlier verses) would be constantly available to hear legal cases and disputes amongst the people. This shows the importance of justice being consistently accessible.
"It shall be that every great matter they shall bring to you...": Cases that were particularly complex, difficult to resolve, or had significant implications for the community would be referred back to Moses, who was the highest authority and judge.
"...but every small matter they shall judge themselves.": The lesser disputes, those that were simpler to adjudicate, would be handled by these judges independently.
"So shall it be easier for you, and they shall share the load with you.": The purpose of this delegation was to lighten Moses' burden. By allowing others to handle the routine legal matters, Moses would have more time and energy to focus on the most important issues facing the nation, such as spiritual leadership, interpreting God's law, and dealing with national crises. It also fostered a sense of shared responsibility and leadership within the community.
In essence, the verse highlights the wisdom of delegation and the importance of a well-structured legal system to ensure efficient and fair administration of justice. It prevents one person from being overwhelmed and empowers others within the community.