P arshas Mishpatim
“Distance yourself from falsehood.” (Shemos 23:7)
The gemara in Shevuos (31a) says: Two people came to judgment; one was wearing rags and the other elegant expensive clothing. The judge said “Either dress like him or he should dress like you so you shouldn’t cause us to favor someone.”
It’s interesting to note that clothes make such a difference. The gemara in Yevamos (109b) says that a judge must picture himself as if he has a sword between his legs and Gehinnom is underneath him. With such thoughts why would he be swayed by someone’s appearance?
In addition the pasuk in Devarim (1:17) gives another command to a judge not to fear anyone. So what difference does it make if the two plaintiffs change clothing — the judge knows what they look like! A minute ago he commanded them to switch clothes and now he’s able to judge them fairly because they did so?
