זקן ממרא

This week’s Parsha has the case of זקן ממרא. This refers to a local judge in one of the cities in Israel who consults the Great Sanhedrin in Jerusalem, regarding a Halachic problem. This judge is asking for a decision from the Sanhedrin on an issue that he was seeking their advice. The obligation of this judge was to follow exactly according to this decision. Instead, the judge acted in a rebellious manner, and acted against the Sanhedrin. This is viewed as a grievous sin which is punishable by death. This case is brought in the same chapter that discusses the obligation to listen to the teachings of the Rabbis. The Torah gives authority to the Rabbis to protect and safeguard the Torah. They are also allowed to make decrees for the benefit of the Jewish people. The זקן ממרא is punished so severely, because he disrespected the highest court in the land. The role of the Rabbis must never be compromised.