See Judges of Israel
One of three offices in Hebrew Polity, most closely associated with Rulership
First exclusive one is Deborah
Sh-P-T, a primitive verb.
šōp̄êṭ shofet (n.) שופטים (pl.) šōp̄əṭîm/shoftim. This form does not appear to occur in the Hebrew Bible, only the verb forms (H8199-8203)
Only office restricted in time (kings and priests were not exclusive to Israel; they existed before and after Israelite confederation).
They appear in Judges 2:16 but end with the monarchy (approximately 1150–1025 BCE)
Moses establishes judicial branch upon Jethro’s advice;
Exodus 18:19 …You shall represent the people before God and bring their cases to God, 20 and you shall warn them about the statutes and the laws, and make them know the way in which they must walk and what they must do. 21 Moreover, look for ḥayil men from all the people, men who fear God, who are trustworthy and hate a bribe 22 And let them judge the people at all times. Every great matter they shall bring to you, but any small matter they shall decide themselves. So it will be easier for you, and they will bear the burden with you.
Aaron is Priesthood, leaving only ‣ prophetic office.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hebrew_Bible_judges
judge was equivalent to archon;