“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.”
Context: The book of Exodus recounts the story of the Israelites’ liberation from slavery in Egypt and their journey to the Promised Land. In Exodus 18, Moses’ father-in-law, Jethro, visits him in the wilderness. Jethro observes Moses judging and resolving disputes among the people and advises him to appoint capable leaders to assist him in governing the people. Verse 21 contains Jethro’s counsel to Moses regarding the qualities these leaders should possess.
Selection of Able Men: Jethro advises Moses to choose able men from among the people. This implies that the leaders should possess skills, talents, and qualities that make them capable of fulfilling their responsibilities effectively. Competence and capability are important traits for leaders in any context.
Fear God: The chosen leaders should fear God. This refers to a deep reverence and respect for God, acknowledging His authority and seeking to align their lives and decisions with His will. Leaders who fear God recognize their ultimate accountability to Him and are more likely to lead with wisdom, integrity, and a sense of justice.
Men of Truth: The leaders should be individuals who are committed to truthfulness and honesty. Truth is a foundational aspect of leadership. Leaders who prioritize truthfulness gain the trust and respect of those they lead. They communicate honestly, uphold ethical standards, and make decisions based on objective truth rather than personal bias.
Hating Covetousness: The leaders should hate covetousness, which means they should reject greed, selfishness, and the desire for personal gain at the expense of others. Covetousness can corrupt leaders and lead to unfair practices, exploitation, and the neglect of their responsibilities. Leaders who hate covetousness prioritize the well-being and welfare of the people they serve.
Rulers of Thousands, Hundreds, Fifties, and Tens: Jethro suggests that the appointed leaders should be responsible for governing various sizes of groups. This hierarchical structure allows for effective governance and administration. It ensures that leadership is distributed and allows for closer attention to the needs and concerns of smaller groups. The leaders are given specific responsibilities and authority to oversee the affairs of the people.
Overall, Exodus 18:21 highlights the importance of selecting capable leaders who fear God, are truthful, and despise covetousness. These qualities are crucial for effective leadership, promoting justice, and fostering a community where people are guided by principles of righteousness. This verse provides valuable insights into the qualities and responsibilities of leaders in both biblical and contemporary contexts.
