King James Bible
"Take you wise men, and understanding, and known among your tribes, and I will make them rulers over you."
Moses instructs the Israelites to select leaders possessing both wisdom and discernment—qualities essential for judicial decision-making. This democratic element shows that leadership selection involved the people's participation, not just top-down appointment. The chosen leaders must have established reputations within their communities, ensuring accountability and trust. This requirement prevented outsiders or unproven individuals from assuming authority over people who didn't know their character. While the people nominate candidates, Moses retains the authority to formally appoint them, maintaining divine order in governance. This balance between popular selection and prophetic confirmation established a pattern of shared responsibility in Israel's leadership structure.