Umar's advice to the judges

Here's a summary of some timeless advice prepared by Umar (God be pleased with him) for his judges. It's taken from Dr Ali Muhammad as-Sallabi's book about the life and times of Umar Ibn al-Khattaab. A small example of the fruit of the faith which the Prophet (peace and blessings of God be upon him) planted in his heart!..

Try to understand when cases are presented to you,

for there is no use in a person presenting a case if it is not understood.

Treat people equally when you address them

so that no noble man will hope for your unfair siding with him

and no weak man will despair of your justice.

Be gentle with the weak one

so that he will have the courage to speak.

The burden of proof rests with the plaintiff,

the oath is required of the defendant,

and judgement must be based on evidence and oaths.

Strive to bring about reconciliation,

unless it becomes clear to you who is in the right and who is in the wrong.

If you passed a judgement yesterday

then examined it further and are guided to a different conclusion,

let it not prevent you from returning to the truth.

And returning to the truth is better than persisting with falsehood.