Why does Pirkei Avot begin with a lesson seemingly directed at judges: “Be deliberate in judgment”? Pirkei Avot is filled with timeless lessons for everyday life. So why begin with something that appears to apply only to judges?
In this week's parsha, Moshe instructs the judges to listen carefully to each case and not rush to judgment. Even when they have heard similar cases before, they must deliberate carefully before reaching a decision.
But perhaps the Mishnah is teaching us that everyone is a judge.
Every day, we constantly make judgments and decisions. We evaluate people we meet, decide how to respond to situations, and make choices that can affect our future. Just as a driver must think carefully before deciding whether to brake or accelerate, we must think before acting.
A rushed judgment can have serious consequences. Before making an important decision—or judging another person—we should pause, consider the situation carefully, and avoid acting impulsively.
“Be deliberate in judgment” isn't just advice for judges. It's advice for life.