Deuteronomy 1:13

13 Let me have from among you wise and understanding men, and such whose conversation is approved among your tribes, that I may appoint them your rulers.

Deuteronomy 1:13 Meaning and Commentary

Deuteronomy 1:13

Take ye wise men, and understanding, and known among your
tribes
Not only whose persons were well known, but their characters and qualifications, for their probity and integrity, for their wisdom and prudence in the management of affairs, for their skill and knowledge in things divine and human, civil and religious, and for their capacity in judging and determining matters in difference; see ( Exodus 18:21 )

and I will make them rulers over you;
the people were allowed to choose their own officers, whom they were to bring to Moses, and present before him, to be invested with their office. A like method was taken in the choice and constitution of deacons in the Christian church, when the secular affairs of it lay too heavy upon the apostles, ( Acts 6:3 ) .

Deuteronomy 1:13 In-Context

11 (The Lord God of your fathers add to this number many thousands, and bless you as he hath spoken.)

12 I alone am not able to bear your business, and the charge of you and your differences.

13 Let me have from among you wise and understanding men, and such whose conversation is approved among your tribes, that I may appoint them your rulers.

14 Then you answered me: The thing is good which thou meanest to do.

15 And I took out of your tribes men wise and honourable, and appointed them rulers, tribunes, and centurions, and officers over fifties, and over tens, who might teach you all things.