Biblical justice

How can you stand alongside those who need or demand justice?

Luke 18:4-5

For a while he refused, but later he said to himself, “Though I have no fear of God and no respect for anyone, yet because this widow keeps bothering me, I will grant her justice, so that she may not wear me out by continually coming.”

In ancient Jewish society, there were three types of people who were considered to be the most vulnerable in society: widows, orphans, and foreigners/refugees. These people were especially vulnerable to economic and social peril, as well as exploitation; thus the Hebrew scriptures, including the legal codes of Torah, were intentional to create provisions that not only protected, but elevated these people.

Eradicating oppression and alleviating affliction were central components of the biblical definition of justice: “to give what someone is due.” The widow displays a knowledge of Torah tradition as well as a belief in her inherent dignity, yet the man with power is reluctant to hear or effect what is right.

How can you stand alongside those who need or demand justice? 

–  Evan Amo