Exodus 18:20

Ordinances and laws. Jethro’s distinction between “ordinances” and “laws” is not clear. Some regard “statutes” as connected with religion and “laws” as regulations with respect to civil and social matters. Others explain the first as “specific” and the second as “general” enactments. Jethro’s advice that Moses ought to “shew them the way wherein they must walk” does clearly reveal that he meant Moses should lay down broad principles to guarantee equality and justice. The RSV renders these two terms as “statutes,” or the laws themselves, and “decisions,” or principles to be followed in applying the laws.