The biblical instructions to the judges are a significant aspect of the judicial and moral framework established by God for the nation of Israel. These instructions are primarily found in the Pentateuch, particularly in the books of Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. They provide guidance on how judges should conduct themselves and administer justice among the people.

Appointment and Qualifications

The appointment of judges is first mentioned in Exodus 18, where Jethro, Moses' father-in-law, advises Moses to appoint capable men to serve as judges over the people. These men were to be "capable men from all the people—men who fear God, trustworthy men who hate dishonest gain" (Exodus 18:21). This passage highlights the importance of selecting judges who possess integrity, reverence for God, and a commitment to justice.

Judicial Responsibilities

Judges were tasked with hearing disputes and rendering decisions based on God's laws. Deuteronomy 1:16-17 instructs the judges to "hear the disputes between your brothers and judge fairly between a man and his brother or a foreign resident. Show no partiality in judging; hear both small and great alike. Do not be afraid of any man, for judgment belongs to God" . This directive emphasizes impartiality, fairness, and the recognition that ultimate judgment is God's prerogative.

Prohibition of Bribery and Corruption

The Bible explicitly warns judges against accepting bribes, which can pervert justice. Exodus 23:8 states, "Do not accept a bribe, for a bribe blinds those who see and twists the words of the righteous" . This prohibition underscores the need for judges to maintain integrity and resist any form of corruption that could compromise their decisions.

Upholding Justice and Righteousness

Judges were called to uphold justice and righteousness, reflecting God's character. Leviticus 19:15 instructs, "You must not pervert justice; you must not show partiality to the poor or favoritism to the rich; you are to judge your neighbor fairly" . This command reinforces the principle that justice should be administered equitably, without regard to social or economic status.

Role in Maintaining Social Order

The judges played a crucial role in maintaining social order and ensuring that the community adhered to God's commandments. Deuteronomy 16:18-20 commands the appointment of judges and officials in every town, emphasizing the pursuit of justice: "Appoint judges and officials for each of your tribes in every town the LORD your God is giving you, and they shall judge the people fairly. Pursue justice, and justice alone, so that you may live and possess the land the LORD your God is giving you" .

Accountability to God

Judges were ultimately accountable to God for their actions and decisions. The understanding that judgment belongs to God served as a sobering reminder of their responsibility. This accountability is echoed in 2 Chronicles 19:6-7, where Jehoshaphat instructs the judges, "Consider carefully what you do, because you are not judging for man, but for the LORD, who is with you whenever you give a verdict. Now let the fear of the LORD be upon you. Be careful in what you do, for with the LORD our God there is no injustice or partiality or bribery" .

The biblical instructions to the judges establish a framework for justice that is rooted in divine principles, emphasizing integrity, impartiality, and accountability. These guidelines were intended to ensure that the administration of justice reflected God's righteousness and maintained the social and moral order of the Israelite community.