The Appointment of Leaders

⁹ At that time I said to you, “You are too heavy a burden^(A) for me to carry alone.^{(B) 10} The Lord your God has increased^(C) your numbers^(D) so that today you are as numerous^(E) as the stars in the sky.^{(F) 11} May the Lord, the God of your ancestors, increase^(G) you a thousand times and bless you as he has promised!^{(H) 12} But how can I bear your problems and your burdens and your disputes all by myself?^{(I) 13} Choose some wise, understanding and respected men^(J) from each of your tribes, and I will set them over you.”

¹⁴ You answered me, “What you propose to do is good.”

¹⁵ So I took^(K) the leading men of your tribes,^(L) wise and respected men,^(M) and appointed them to have authority over you—as commanders^(N) of thousands, of hundreds, of fifties and of tens and as tribal officials.^{(O) 16} And I charged your judges at that time, “Hear the disputes between your people and judge^(P) fairly,^(Q) whether the case is between two Israelites or between an Israelite and a foreigner residing among you.^{(R) 17} Do not show partiality^(S) in judging; hear both small and great alike. Do not be afraid of anyone,^(T) for judgment belongs to God. Bring me any case too hard for you, and I will hear it.”^{(U) 18} And at that time I told you everything you were to do.^(V)