Commentary on the Gospel of
One of the paradoxical Talmudic statements that has confused modern jurisprudence is this: “If everyone is in agreement to condemn someone accused, release him, for he must be innocent.” In other words, unanimity in judgement often endangers justice, because such unanimity could be a sign of blind conformity to groupthink and of the fear of standing up for a more just but unpopular view; and at other times, it simply serves a hidden agenda. Watch the movie “Twelve Angry Men” directed by Sidney Lumet to understand how unanimity can trump justice, and how, one person choosing to dissent, can change the verdict! Young Daniel shows the courage to dissent, and becomes the catalyst for the change of verdict and redemption of Susanna. However, the reverse unanimity that led to the murder of the two elders was unfortunate too! Our human judgements are imperfect, until we learn to judge in the Light of Christ.
