I recently heard prosecutors discussing the need to build their legal cases using both “belt and suspenders.” By this they meant, making it full proof, i.e., even if one argument failed, making sure to have other mechanisms to achieve a conviction. Just as a belt and suspenders can hold up pants, the combination of both would make it even less likely you would be caught with your pants down.
This week’s Torah portion, Shoftim, begins with a similar sentiment in setting up the ancient system of Justice. The portion begins: “Judges and police officers shall you appoint at all your gates” (Duet. 16:18). Having a guard in front of our gate is not all unusual, but a judge as well? In ancient times, the gates of the city served as the courthouse, so this in of itself would not be anything alarming. It is the necessity of both that is significant.
If “Justice, Justice” is what we should pursue, then we need a robust enough system to make it work. In the words if this week’s Torah portion, we see the seeds of what will become our modern judicial system. Each belt and suspender of the system was set up at a different time, finally leading to all the instruments available to us today. We are the beneficiaries of thousands of years of trial and error that helps us feel safe and protected in our societies today. While far from perfect, I am grateful for all the effort that has gone in to setting it up.
Shabbat Shalom,
Rabbi Alex