Exodus 18:21 Meaning and Explanation
“Moreover thou shalt provide out of all the people able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness; and place such over them, to be rulers of thousands, and rulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of tens:”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Moses should appoint capable, God-fearing men of integrity to serve as judges over varying numbers of people.
The Context of Exodus 18:21
Jethro suggests appointing qualified judges at multiple levels.
What Does Exodus 18:21 Mean?
Jethro outlines the qualifications for subordinate judges: ability (competence), fear of God (piety), truth (honesty), and hatred of covetousness (incorruptibility). These are both moral and practical standards.
The hierarchical structure—rulers of thousands, hundreds, fifties, and tens—creates a tiered system of accountability. Large disputes go up the ladder; small ones are resolved at lower levels. This multiplies leadership capacity and distributes the burden.
Exodus 18:21 in the Original Language
yirah (יִרְאָה), 'fear God' — awe-struck reverence and obedience toward the divine.
Frequently Asked Questions About Exodus 18:21
What does Exodus 18:21 mean?
Moses should appoint capable, God-fearing men of integrity to serve as judges over varying numbers of people.
What is the context of Exodus 18:21?
Jethro suggests appointing qualified judges at multiple levels.