Evolution of the Judge's Status: From Ancient Priest to Guarantor of JusticeImagine a world without judges. Disputes are resolved by拳头, injuries by blood revenge, and truth belongs to whoever shouts louder. This is how ancient civilizations lived before a person was entrusted to judge. The judge is one of the oldest professions, but his status has changed fundamentally: from a priest pronouncing the will of the gods to an independent arbitrator who cannot be bought or frightened. How did this institution form, who stood at its origins, and when did the judge finally obtain that protection and well-being without which fair justice is impossible?Origins: When the Judge Was God, Elder, or KingThe first judges appeared even in pre-literate societies. Their functions were performed by clan 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 — the highest officials elected for one year. And in Rome during the kingship period, the king himself judged. The judge was not just a professional, he was part of 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 code of laws stipulated that the judge must be just and not subject to influence. For issuing an unjust verdict, the judge faced severe punishment, up to removal from office and a large fine. And in the laws of Ashnunna (20th century BC), there were already provisions protecting the judge from defamation and unfounded accusations — this was the first sprout of judicial immunity.In Ancient Rome, judicial magistrates had great authority, but their status depended on the poli ... Read more