The Evolution of the Judge's Status: From Ancient Priest to Guarantor of JusticeImagine a world without judges. Disputes are settled by fists, grievances by blood feuds, and truth belongs to whoever shouts loudest. This is how ancient civilizations lived before a person was entrusted to judge. The judge is one of the oldest professions, but its status has changed dramatically: from a priest pronouncing the will of the gods to an independent arbiter who cannot be bought or frightened. How did this institution form, who stood at its origins, and when did the judge finally gain that protection and well-being without which fair justice is impossible?Origins: When the Judge Was God, an Elder, or a KingThe first judges appeared in pre-literate societies. Their functions were performed by tribal elders, tribal leaders, or priests. They did not just resolve disputes—they interpreted the will of ancestors or gods. Justice was sacred, and the judge was its living embodiment. In Ancient Egypt, the judge wore an image of the goddess of truth Maat on his chest—he had to be as pure as her feather. In Ancient Greece, judicial functions were often performed by archons—senior officials elected for one year. And in Ancient Rome, during the royal period, the king himself judged. The judge was not just a professional; he was part of the power and religion.The first written laws, such as the Code of Hammurabi (18th century BC), already fixed the principles of judicial proceedings and requirements for judges. This ancient legal code stipulated that a judge must be just and not subject to influence. A severe punishment, up to dismissal from office and a heavy fine, awaited a judge for delivering an unjust judgment. And in the Laws of Ashnunna (20th century BC), there were already provisions protecting judges from defamation and unjust accusations—these were the first shoots of judicial immunity.In Ancient Rome, judicial magistrates had great authority, but their status depended on the pol ... Read more