Deuteronomy
The mitzvot of Devarim
After Sefer HaChinuch · by a Levite of Barcelona
Mitzvot in the parsha: 2 Positive: 0 Negative: 2
- 414
Not to appoint a judge that does not know the laws of the Torah
Negative Deuteronomy 1:17
The root of this mitzvah is plain to all - a judge who does not know the laws of the Torah will acquit the guilty and condemn the innocent, not because he is wicked but because he does not know. Therefore no one is appointed a judge who has not learned the wisdom of the Torah, even if he is handsome, strong, rich or a master of languages.
- 415
That a judge not fear in judgment
Negative Deuteronomy 1:17
Reason itself testifies to the root of this mitzvah. A judge who fears one of the litigants will not be able to speak the truth, and in the end will bend the judgment in favour of the stronger. Therefore one who sits in judgment must judge without fear, for the judgment is God's.