Reasons for the Judicial Precepts

The form of government established by divine law forthe Chosen People was partly monarchy, partly aristocracy, and partly democracy. Moses and his successors governed as kings; there were seventy elders to assist in the rule; these elders were raised to their aristocratic status from the ranks of the people and bythe votes of the people.

The judicial precepts of the Old Law were admirablysuited to the people; they regulated acts and holdings in a just and effective way; they guarded the rights of individuals and of society.

The judicial precepts of the Old Law made kind and just provision for foreigners passing through the country or coming to dwell in it. As regards hostile foreigners, the precepts required that war be undertaken only after offers of peace and efforts to maintain it; that once in war the people should persevere bravely,trusting in God; that after victory the people should be moderate in conduct, not vengeful or destructive.

As for home life, the precepts of the Old Law gave fitting directions to husband and wife, to parents and children, to masters and servants, and to young couples about to marry.