“And these are (V’AiLeH) the
laws (HaMiShPaTiYM) that (ASheR)
you should set (TaSiYM) before them (LiPNaYHeM).”
(Shemot/Exodus 21:1)
Rabbi Yisrael Bronstein writes in A Shabbos Vort that
the Ba’al HaTurim sees in the Hebrew verse an acrostic containing a hidden
message about how judges should conduct themselves during hearings.
V’AiLeH – V’chayav
Adam Lachkor Hadin – A person is
required to investigate the case.
HaMiShPaTiYM – Hadayan
Metzuveh Sheya’aseh Pe’sharah Terem
Ya’aseh Mishpat -- The judge is obligated to
find a middle ground before imposing a ruling,
ASheR – Im Shneihem
Rotzim – Assuming the two [parties] are willing [to compromise].
TaSiYM – Tishma Sheneihem
Yachad Medabrim – Listen as the two [parties]
speak.
LiPNaYHeM – Lo Pnei
Nadiv Yehader; Hisnaker Meihem
– Do not show favor to the wealthy man; estrange yourself from them [the
litigants.]
As parents, we often find ourselves settling arguments
between our children. The rules for judges that are implied in the verse can
help us arrive at fair decisions and restore peace to our homes. First, we must
listen to each child describe what caused the argument and what needs to be
resolved. Then, if the children are receptive to our arbitration, we must
deliberate until we can provide an equitable solution. Throughout the process,
we must be careful to show no favoritism; we must not be influenced by a
child’s promise in exchange for a favorable ruling. Our children will learn the
value of finding a middle ground and of agreeing to compromise.
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