Topical Encyclopedia In the post-exilic period of Israel's history, the Persian Empire played a significant role in the governance and administration of the Jewish people. After the Babylonian exile, the Persian Empire, under the leadership of Cyrus the Great, conquered Babylon and allowed the Jewish exiles to return to their homeland. This period saw the re-establishment of Jewish society and religious practices, and the appointment of judges was a crucial aspect of maintaining order and justice.Historical Context The Persian Empire, known for its relatively tolerant and efficient administrative system, allowed a degree of autonomy to its subject peoples, including the Jews. This autonomy extended to religious and civil matters, where local leaders and judges were appointed to oversee the community's affairs. The role of these judges was to interpret and apply the Mosaic Law, ensuring that the Jewish community adhered to their covenantal obligations. Biblical References While the Bible does not explicitly mention judges appointed by the Persians, the books of Ezra and Nehemiah provide insight into the governance structure during this period. Ezra, a scribe and priest, was sent by the Persian king Artaxerxes to Jerusalem with the authority to appoint magistrates and judges. Ezra 7:25 states, "And you, Ezra, according to the wisdom of your God, which you possess, appoint magistrates and judges to judge all the people in the province Beyond the River—all who know the laws of your God. And you are to teach these laws to anyone who does not know them." This passage highlights the Persian policy of allowing local leaders to govern according to their laws, with Ezra being empowered to appoint judges who would ensure the community's adherence to the Torah. Role and Responsibilities The judges appointed during this period were responsible for maintaining justice and order within the Jewish community. They were tasked with interpreting the Law of Moses and applying it to various civil and religious disputes. Their role was crucial in preserving the distinct identity of the Jewish people amidst the diverse cultures of the Persian Empire. These judges were expected to be men of integrity, wisdom, and a deep understanding of the law. Their decisions were to reflect the righteousness and justice of God, as outlined in the Torah. The appointment of judges by figures like Ezra ensured that the Jewish community could function according to their religious convictions while under Persian rule. Significance The appointment of judges by the Persians underscores the importance of local governance and religious autonomy in the Jewish community during the post-exilic period. It reflects the broader Persian policy of allowing subject peoples to maintain their cultural and religious practices, which contributed to the stability and longevity of the empire. This system of governance also highlights the continuity of Jewish legal and religious traditions, even in the context of foreign rule. The judges served as a bridge between the Persian authorities and the Jewish community, ensuring that the latter could live according to their faith while respecting the overarching political structure of the empire. Nave's Topical Index Ezra 7:25And you, Ezra, after the wisdom of your God, that is in your hand, set magistrates and judges, which may judge all the people that are beyond the river, all such as know the laws of your God; and teach you them that know them not. Nave's Topical Index Library Coming Judgment of the Secrets of Men From Gallienus to the End of the Last Persecution (Ad 261-313) On Daniel. Iii. Scholia on Daniel. Of the State of the Primitive Church, and the Mode of Government ... The Later Hebrew Histories. Of the Three Woe Trumpets. The Accession of Darius. The Sermon on the Mount - the Kingdom of Christ and Rabbinic ... Treatise vi. On the Vanity of Idols: Showing that the Idols are ... Introduction Resources What does the Bible mean that we are not to judge others? | GotQuestions.orgWhat can we learn from the parable of the persistent widow and unjust judge? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean that we will judge angels? | GotQuestions.org Judge: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Judge: Appointed by the Persians Judge: Character of, and Precepts Relating To Judge: Corrupt: The Judges of Jezreel Judge: Judges (Outstanding Leaders) of Israel: During the Time when the Land Was Ruled by Judges Judge: Kings and Other Rulers As Judge: Samson: Samuel As the Leader (Judge) Judge: Samson: The Sons of Samuel Related Terms |
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