Crime and Punishment

This refers to an incident at the time of Solomon ‘King of Israel’. Crime and Punishment were subjects dealt with by the King.  Solomon's judgment became known and was considered an example of profound wisdom. His judgements were considered a benchmark for others to follow. It was commonly said the neighbouring Kings would consider how Solomon would think. Answer got. Judgment given.

Aaron was King of a neighbouring province.

It happened once that a murderer was caught and brought to the king. A petty fight had led to the murder. The king thought for long and after hearing both sides pronounced, ‘Let the hands that caused this murder be chopped at the wrist.’ Hearing this his wife began to wail. “My Lord, these are the hands that feed us ..his aged parents, wife, and children. If these are chopped, then we will all die of hunger."

The king was unwilling to alter his pronouncement, but after hearing the wife, said, "If you care as much for him, then I shall rewrite my judgement. Let his left hand be chopped along with your left."    

She was shocked at hearing this, and began to weep. The king said,  "Now both of you will have your right hand to earn your living, while the missing left will remind you of the crime and punishment." The King further told her,"When you sympathize with the criminal and wish to alter my judgement, then you must be willing to accept part of the punishment awarded.” 

Do we sometimes unknowingly help those punished by God?

Do we seek God’s pardon on those we love, and by doing so try and alter his law of Crime and Punishment?

Do we by helping the condemned try to alter God’s judgement, thereby invite suffering on ourselves?