Topical Encyclopedia The concept of a "Jury of Ten Men" is not explicitly found in the Bible; however, the idea of a group of individuals making judicial decisions is present in various forms throughout the Scriptures. The Bible provides numerous examples of collective decision-making and the establishment of justice through a group of leaders or elders, which can be seen as a precursor to the modern concept of a jury.Biblical Foundations In the Old Testament, the administration of justice was often carried out by elders or leaders within the community. For instance, in Deuteronomy 16:18, the Israelites are instructed to appoint judges and officials in every town: "Appoint judges and officials for each of your tribes in every town the LORD your God is giving you, and they shall judge the people fairly" . This directive underscores the importance of a collective body in maintaining justice and order. The number ten holds significance in the Bible, often symbolizing completeness or a quorum. For example, in Genesis 18:32, Abraham negotiates with God to spare Sodom if ten righteous people can be found there. This number is also significant in Jewish tradition, where a minyan, or quorum of ten men, is required for certain religious obligations. Judicial Practices in Ancient Israel The judicial system in ancient Israel was designed to reflect God's justice and righteousness. Exodus 18:21-22 describes Moses' appointment of capable men to serve as judges over the people: "But select capable men from all the people—men who fear God, trustworthy men who hate dishonest gain—and appoint them as officials over thousands, hundreds, fifties, and tens. Have them serve as judges for the people at all times" . This passage highlights the delegation of judicial responsibilities to a group of men, ensuring that justice was administered fairly and efficiently. The role of elders in judicial matters is further emphasized in Deuteronomy 19:12, where the elders of a city are tasked with delivering a murderer to the avenger of blood. This collective responsibility underscores the importance of community involvement in the pursuit of justice. New Testament Context In the New Testament, the concept of a jury or group decision-making is less formalized but still present. The early church often made decisions collectively, as seen in Acts 15:6, where the apostles and elders gathered to consider the issue of Gentile believers: "The apostles and elders met to consider this matter" . This gathering reflects the early Christian practice of seeking consensus and wisdom from a group of leaders. Conclusion While the specific term "Jury of Ten Men" does not appear in the Bible, the principles of collective decision-making and the administration of justice by a group of leaders are deeply rooted in biblical tradition. These practices reflect the biblical values of fairness, accountability, and community involvement in the pursuit of justice. Nave's Topical Index Ruth 4:2And he took ten men of the elders of the city, and said, Sit you down here. And they sat down. Nave's Topical Index Library The Jury's Charge against Wesley A Man Expects to Reap the Same Kind as He Sows. Moody -- what Think Ye of Christ? The Third Commandment Elucidations. The Wicked Heart Set to do Evil. Justification. Successful Methods of Public Speaking The Planting of the Church in New England --Pilgrim and Puritan. On Trusting in the Mercy of God. Resources What are boundaries, and are they biblical? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the Vatican / Vatican City? | GotQuestions.org What is the Russian Orthodox Church? | GotQuestions.org Jurisdiction: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
    |