Deuteronomy 1:17 Meaning and Explanation
“Ye shall not respect persons in judgment; but ye shall hear the small as well as the great; ye shall not be afraid of the face of man; for the judgment is God's: and the cause that is too hard for you, bring it unto me, and I will hear it.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Judges must show no partiality, must hear all cases equally, and must not fear social pressure; ultimate authority rests with God and with Moses.
The Context of Deuteronomy 1:17
Mandates for judges: impartiality, equal hearing, courage, and escalation.
What Does Deuteronomy 1:17 Mean?
"Not respect persons" forbids the judge to show favoritism based on social status, wealth, or power. Hearing "the small as well as the great" mandates equal attention regardless of rank. The phrase "not be afraid of the face of man" protects judges from intimidation or social pressure, anchoring their duty in God rather than in fear of consequences from the powerful.
The final clause reminds judges that their authority derives from God and that cases beyond their competence or capacity should be escalated to Moses. This creates a safety mechanism ensuring that extraordinarily difficult cases receive the highest attention.
Frequently Asked Questions About Deuteronomy 1:17
What does Deuteronomy 1:17 mean?
Judges must show no partiality, must hear all cases equally, and must not fear social pressure; ultimate authority rests with God and with Moses.
What is the context of Deuteronomy 1:17?
Mandates for judges: impartiality, equal hearing, courage, and escalation.