Exodus 18:26 describes the restructuring of the Israelite judicial system based on the advice of Jethro, Moses' father-in-law. The verse signifies a division of labor and responsibility in dispensing justice:
"They judged the people at all times." This implies that the newly appointed judges were constantly available to hear cases and disputes. Justice was no longer solely reliant on Moses, which was causing him to be overwhelmed.
"They brought the hard causes to Moses..." The judges were given the authority to decide simple cases. However, the more complex or difficult cases, those involving significant legal questions or interpersonal conflicts, were still brought to Moses.
"...but every small matter they judged themselves." The judges were empowered to resolve minor disputes independently, freeing Moses from these trivial matters.
Essentially, it's about delegation and efficiency. Moses couldn't handle the entire judicial burden himself. By appointing judges to handle smaller cases, he could focus on the more challenging legal issues and provide overall leadership to the nation. It also makes justice more accessible to the people, since they have local judges readily available.
Exodus 18:26 describes the restructuring of the Israelite judicial system based on the advice of Jethro, Moses' father-in-law. The verse signifies a division of labor and responsibility in dispensing justice:
"They judged the people at all times." This implies that the newly appointed judges were constantly available to hear cases and disputes. Justice was no longer solely reliant on Moses, which was causing him to be overwhelmed.
"They brought the hard causes to Moses..." The judges were given the authority to decide simple cases. However, the more complex or difficult cases, those involving significant legal questions or interpersonal conflicts, were still brought to Moses.
"...but every small matter they judged themselves." The judges were empowered to resolve minor disputes independently, freeing Moses from these trivial matters.
Essentially, it's about delegation and efficiency. Moses couldn't handle the entire judicial burden himself. By appointing judges to handle smaller cases, he could focus on the more challenging legal issues and provide overall leadership to the nation. It also makes justice more accessible to the people, since they have local judges readily available.