Isaiah 41:1

A court of law is where witnesses give evidence. Before it is possible to reach a decision, the facts of the matter must be clear. Each person whom the decision may affect has an opportunity to speak without interruption.

• In ancient times, the ‘court’ was not a building. The common place to decide legal questions, among other activities, was the open area inside the city’s main gate (for examples, see Genesis 23:10; Deuteronomy 21:19; Ruth 4:1; Job 29:7). This was the only space in a city where people could meet. Houses were much too close together. Streets were mere paths.

• The older citizens would give any necessary advice from their experience. Everybody respected their wisdom.

• There is great danger and people are afraid. The basic question that is needing an answer on this anxious occasion is: ‘Who controls the events through history?’