English Explanatory Dictionary

palm tree justice

English dictionary entry

Meanings

noun
  1. A flexible, discretionary approach to legal decision making that prioritizes fairness in specific circumstances over strict adherence to legal precedents or rights.

Word forms

palm tree justice

Etymology

According to the Chambers Dictionary (Edinburgh: Chambers Harrap, 1998) the phrase is “from the old Arabic or Jewish idea of a wise man dispensing justice under a palm tree.” Namely: And she dwelt under the palm tree of Deborah between Ramah and Bethel in mount Ephraim: and the children of Israel came up to her for judgment. (Judges 4:5)

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