Deuteronomy 1:9–18

⁹And I said to you at that time:

¹⁰I alone am not able to bear you: for the Lord your God hath multiplied you, and you are this day as the stars of heaven, for multitude.

¹¹(The Lord God of your fathers add to this number many thousands, and bless you as he hath spoken.)

¹²I alone am not able to bear your business, and the charge of you and your differences.

¹³Let me have from among you wise and understanding men, and such whose conversation is approved among your tribes, that I may appoint them your rulers.

¹⁴Then you answered me: The thing is good which thou meanest to do.

¹⁵And I took out of your tribes men wise and honourable, and appointed them rulers, tribunes, and centurions, and officers over fifties, and over tens, who might teach you all things.

¹⁶And I commanded them, saying: Hear them, and judge that which is just: whether he be one of your country, or a stranger.

¹⁷There shall be no difference of persons, you shall hear the little as well as the great: neither shall you respect any man’s person, because it is the judgment of God. And if any thing seem hard to you, refer it to me, and I will hear it.

¹⁸And I commanded you all things that you were to do.