Equality before the law
Who
A principle rooted in the Hebrew Bible / Torah, not a single individual
When
c. 6th century BCE and earlier (biblical text)
Where
Ancient Israel / the ancient Near East
The idea that the same law binds everyone, powerful or weak, native or foreigner, is a foundational ethical principle expressed early in the Hebrew Bible. Verses such as Leviticus 24:22 and Numbers 15:16 command 'one law' for the citizen and the stranger alike, and Deuteronomy insists judges show no partiality. These biblical texts became a major source for the Western ideal of equal justice under law.
Part of “The Gifts of the Jews” — verified Jewish contributions to the world, with sources.