The Judge Who Discerns Righteous From Wicked Gains A Good Name

Midrash Mishlei 2:5

Curated by Arthur·Told by Maggid·

(Proverbs 2:9): "Then you will understand righteousness and justice" - inasmuch as he sits in judgment, he must understand how to vindicate the righteous one and to condemn the wicked one; and inasmuch as he does so, the words of Torah become before him like level paths. And not only that, but he acquires a good name in this world and in the world to come; therefore it is said "and equity, every good course." Another interpretation of "and equity" - inasmuch as the words of Torah become before him like level paths, he does not stumble over them. Another interpretation of "every good course": there is no "good" except Torah, as it is said (Proverbs 4:2): "For I have given you a good acquisition, my Torah - do not forsake it." If he forsakes them, they forsake him; if he guards them, they guard him and keep him.

Themes

JudgmentTorahRighteousness

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