Honest Judges

There are numerous places in the Talmud that speak of the horrible effects that corrupt judges have on society. This could also be a contributing factor that lead to our exile.

This explains why one of the first subjects brought up by Moshe Rabbeinu in his final address to the Jewish people, was the subject of honest judges.

In order for a society to function at its highest level, its laws need to be able to be enforced. There cannot be any kind of tolerance to allow for bribery and corruption. People need to know that if they are wronged, they have recourse to be certain that justice will prevail.

This is why Moshe describes the qualities that must exist in every judge in Israel. He must be G-d fearing, and not be one who is attached to materialism. He will not be able to be bought.

This is why the most important quality in a judge is that he is G-d fearing. He fulfills the warning of not being afraid of any man. This fear of Heaven will motivate him to get to the truth, and make sure that justice is served.

A society with honest, G-d fearing judges, will survive. They will be the guides that make sure that everyone obeys the law. This will ensure the possibility of living securely in the land, and avoiding be banished and exiled from the land.