SHOPET : Judge

 

SHOPET : Judge

The Meaning of Shopet

The term Shopet (sho-PHAIT) translates to “judge” in Hebrew, but its meaning extends far beyond a mere legal title. Justice, as portrayed in Scripture, is deeply rooted in the character and nature of God. As the ultimate Judge of the earth, He alone can discern the true motivations of our hearts. The Hebrew Scriptures often criticize Israel’s rulers for their failure to uphold justice, particularly for the marginalized, such as aliens, the poor, the fatherless, and widows.

The Hebrew verb shapat encompasses a variety of meanings, including “judge,” “govern,” “vindicate,” “decide,” “defend,” and “deliver.” It reflects the three primary functions of government: executive, legislative, and judicial. This is why figures like Gideon, Samson, and Deborah were referred to as judges. In the New Testament, the concept of judgment is more focused on judicial functions, with Jesus depicted as the Judge of both the living and the dead.

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Praying to Shopet

The Story of Mukhtar Mai

The word "judge" may evoke feelings of fear or negativity, especially for those with distorted perceptions of God as merely wrathful or judgmental. However, consider the story of Mukhtar Mai, a woman from Pakistan who faced unimaginable injustice.

In July 2002, Mukhtar’s brother was kidnapped and gang-raped by members of another tribe, leading to a village council’s horrific decision: Mukhtar was sentenced to be gang-raped as punishment for her brother's alleged actions. In a culture that often places shame on the victim, Mukhtar faced tremendous despair. Initially contemplating suicide, her grief transformed into fierce determination. Instead of remaining silent, she reported the crime and demanded justice, ultimately winning a court case that awarded her compensation.

With her settlement, rather than spending the money on herself, Mukhtar chose to open schools for both girls and boys and a center for battered women. Despite ongoing threats to her life from those seeking to silence her, Mukhtar stood firm, advocating for justice and support for women suffering from similar atrocities.

Now, consider how someone like Mukhtar might resonate with the words of the psalmist:

“Arise, O Shopet of the earth.
Give arrogant people what they deserve.
How long, O Yahweh, will wicked people triumph?
They crush your people, O Yahweh.
Yahweh has become my stronghold.
My Elohim has become my rock of refuge.
He has turned their own wickedness against them.
He will destroy them because of their sins.”
(Psalm 94:2-3, 5, 22-23)

It is important to recognize that praying for justice does not exclude the possibility of mercy and transformation for the wicked.

A Prayer for Justice

God, our Shopet, we pray for justice for all who are oppressed, particularly for those who are poor, infirm, or helpless. We pray for women and children throughout the world. Protect and defend them, bringing their oppressors swiftly to justice. Let the whole world rejoice in your justice, O Lord.

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Promises Associated with the Name

1. “Then all the trees in the forest will sing joyfully in Yahweh’s presence because he is coming. He is coming to judge the earth. He will judge the world with righteousness and its people with his truth.” (Psalm 96:12-13)

2. “Yahweh is waiting to be kind to you. He rises to have compassion on you. Yahweh is an Elohim of justice. Blessed are all those who wait for him.” (Isaiah 30:18)

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Conclusion

Shopet, or God as Judge, embodies divine justice that reflects His nature and character. In a world rife with injustice, we can take comfort in knowing that God sees and understands the struggles of the oppressed. As we pray for justice, we not only seek accountability for wrongdoing but also trust in God’s mercy and ability to transform hearts. In recognizing Him as our Shopet, we reaffirm our faith in His righteousness and commitment to justice for all.