And the lot fell on…

It takes courage to say or write anything against the idea of democracy. In common usage, there is an unwritten rule that any political system not based on democracy is, by definition, self-condemned. A decision deemed undemocratic is, in practice, considered morally objectionable. All political parties hold democracy in high regard, and many even include the ideal in their names (People’s Party for Freedom and Democracy, Democrats 66, Christian Democratic Appeal, Forum for Democracy).

the worst system…

Incidentally, even the most ardent advocates of democracy often temper this glorification. The idea that the majority of the people would know better than a minority is certainly not confirmed by the facts. As Winston Churchill once said:

The best argument against democracy is a five-minute conversation with the average voter.

Also well-known from Churchill is the saying that democracy is the worst form of government—except for all the others. The latter may be up for debate, but the former observation at least shows that Churchill was well aware of democracy’s major shortcomings.

what is democracy?

The word ‘democracy’ is derived from the Greek words for ‘people’ (demos) and ‘to rule’ (kratein), and thus means: rule of the people. It is a form of governance in which the people are the source of legitimate authority. Within this concept, there are quite a few variations. Originally, that is, in ancient Greece, democracy was direct: the people (i.e., those eligible to vote) voted directly by majority. We still see this today in the form of a binding referendum. In general, the Western world adheres to a representative or parliamentary democracy. It is not the people themselves who make the decisions, but their representatives, who are elected either through a district-based system or through proportional representation.

democracy unknown in the Bible

However undisputed the general concept of democracy may be, it is a fact that it is unknown in the Bible. In Scripture, authority comes fundamentally from above (i.e., from GOD), never from below.

Let every soul be subject to higher authorities, for there is no authority except under God, and those that are, have been appointed under God.
—Romans 13:1—

Nowhere in Scripture do we encounter the phenomenon of the people choosing their own leaders. This does not deny, of course, that democratically elected rulers may have been placed in their positions by God (Dan.4:17). The way in which rulers have obtained their power is separate from the fact that this power has been allotted to them by God (Isa.40:23,24). The point here is that the concept of democracy does not find its origin in Scripture. On the contrary, when it comes to justice or truth, majorities are never decisive in the Bible.

Thou shalt not follow a multitude to do evil; neither shalt thou testify in a cause to turn aside after a multitude to wrest judgment.
—Exodus 23:2—

democracy and freedom are not synonyms

Many believe that the opposite of democracy is dictatorship or lack of freedom. From that perspective, democracy and freedom appear to be more or less synonymous concepts. This is a misunderstanding that is easily refuted. Democracy is a form of government in which decisions are made by majority vote. If a majority decides to oppress a minority, then from a democratic point of view, this is legitimate. A 51% dictatorship. Conversely, an aristocracy, for example—where a minority determines the course of affairs—can uphold freedom for all. Let us not forget that, even in Europe’s recent past, some of the most brutal dictatorships came to power entirely through democratic means.

lot-casting

There are several (biblical) forms of governance, each expressing the idea that authority comes from above. For example, a monarchy in which the throne is passed on to the next generation through inheritance. Here, one naturally thinks of the dynasty of David (Ps.89:36–38). In this blog, I would like to draw attention to a selection system in which human influence is fundamentally excluded: the casting of lots. Today, we know this phenomenon almost exclusively in the context of games (with dice) or the lottery—except for jury trials in the Anglo-Saxon world, where jurors are chosen by lot. In the Bible, the casting of lots expresses the idea that man relinquishes the decision.

The lot is cast into the bosom, but the whole disposing thereof is of YAHWEH.
—Proverbs 16:33—

It is for this reason that on quite a number of occasions in Scripture, lots are cast. In this way, the division of the Promised Land was determined (Josh.18:8–10; Num.26:5; Acts 13:19). On the Day of Atonement, the two goats for the sin offering were designated by casting lots (Lev.16:8–10). Jonathan was designated by lot (1 Sam.14:42), and later Jonah as well (Jonah 1:4–7). Zechariah was chosen by lot to serve as priest (Luke 1:8,9). And when Judas’ vacant position had to be filled, two qualified candidates were put forward, but over the choice between the two, no vote was taken, but the lot was cast (Acts 1:23–26). GOD decides. Is this not a beautiful and reverent thought?

popular favor not a decisive factor

In the book of Proverbs we find yet another beautiful commendation of casting lots. It also highlights the contrast with democracy.

The lot causeth contentions to cease, and parteth between the mighty.
—Proverbs 18:18—

Democracies are characterized by continual contention and power struggle. This is because, in a democracy, power does not fall to someone—it must be acquired. Only by popular favor does one gain and retain power. Inherent to this system is that it is not the most qualified, but the largest egos (and loudest voices) that attract attention. Elections do not put an end to power struggles and disputes; rather, they intensify polarization.

How different things would be if (qualified) candidates were appointed by lot! There would be no election campaigns, and candidates would not have to compete for popular approval. The one chosen by lot has not “won,” and the one not chosen has not “lost.” No strife, no frustration, no egos needing to flatter the people. Governance and leadership could be exercised in quietness, because popular favor is not a decisive factor. What a relief such a form of administration would be!

a little more patience…

For the record: with this blog I am not advocating the establishment of a lottocratic system. My reflections serve no political agenda, nor do I entertain the illusion that elections will be replaced by lot-casting in this aeon. Man considers himself far too important for that, and no majority will be willing to relinquish its power voluntarily. No matter. The seventh millennium (= the seventh day!) since Adam is at the doorstep, and the government of GOD’s choosing will not be long in coming. That government will not be democratic, but theocratic. Not controlled by the majority of the people, but “in righteousness and justice” (cf. Isa.32:2).

Delen: