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Random selection is necessary to create stable meritocratic institutions

(assemblingamerica.substack.com)
360 points namlem | 5 comments | 14 Jul 25 15:28 UTC | HN request time: 0s | source
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biomcgary ◴[14 Jul 25 18:03 UTC] No.44563268[source]▶
There is an interesting example of random selection of leadership from the Bible when the apostles replaced Judas. The criteria were agreed upon and then lots drawn.

Acts 1:21-26 Therefore it is necessary to choose one of the men who have been with us the whole time the Lord Jesus was living among us, beginning from John’s baptism to the time when Jesus was taken up from us. For one of these must become a witness with us of his resurrection.” So they nominated two men: Joseph called Barsabbas (also known as Justus) and Matthias. Then they prayed, “Lord, you know everyone’s heart. Show us which of these two you have chosen to take over this apostolic ministry, which Judas left to go where he belongs.” Then they cast lots, and the lot fell to Matthias; so he was added to the eleven apostles.

Can you imagine this practice replacing the Papal conclave? Or, pastor selection at your favorite Protestant group?

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1. pruetj ◴[14 Jul 25 20:41 UTC] No.44565000[source]▶
Interesting point! One interpretation of this passage suggests Peter is actually rushing this appointment. In typical Peter fashion, he makes choices before fulling thinking them through (this seems to change post Pentecost). Matthias is never mentioned again in the Bible; we aren't sure what becomes of him. Canonically, he is the 12th but traditionally, it is Paul who is sometimes considered the true 12th disciple (you can find this depicted in EO iconography).

So, the random selection mentioned here may have actually been a fault of Peter's and not something the Bible is endorsing as a means to choose leadership; possibly quite the opposite in this case.

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2. biomcgary ◴[14 Jul 25 23:56 UTC] No.44566591[source]▶
That's an interesting interpretation but a quick search didn't turn up the first version of that until 1861, so it seem rather late to have influenced EO iconography. Perhaps you are familiar with earlier examples of that interpretation?

Impetuous or not, Peter was likely influenced by the many decisions made by lots in the Hebrew Scriptures. e.g., picking a scapegoat (Leviticus 16:7-10), assigning priestly duties (1 Chronicles 24), dividing land (1 Chronicles 6:54), etc. Furthermore, Proverbs 16:33 & 18:18 indicates the outcome of lots is from God and reduces conflict.

Anyway, ascribing random processes to the divine for decision making, particularly political situations seems to have strong textual support within the Judeo-Christian tradition. I'm curious about parallels in Islam and other offshoots.

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3. aspenmayer ◴[15 Jul 25 00:16 UTC] No.44566665[source]▶
Don’t forget the Roman soldiers at the crucifixion who cast lots to see who would get Jesus’s seamless robe.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seamless_robe_of_Jesus

4. pruetj ◴[15 Jul 25 00:51 UTC] No.44566860[source]▶
Honestly, going off of something I heard Fr. Stephen De Young mention in one of his podcasts. If I remember right, he says when you see the 12 in certain icons, Paul is often present instead of Matthias.

He did not speak of casting lots as being something never endorsed in the Bible, more just for this particular passage, it might not be the takeaway Luke is aiming for. Agree with all your points on 'chance' often being used in scripture.

5. bluGill ◴[15 Jul 25 14:31 UTC] No.44571544[source]▶
You see paul because paul was a great letter writter and Luke followed Paul for some years (likely converted in Pauls misson). however read between the lines and Paul was rarely in the consoles. Even Peter doesn't seem to have been a leader - the sent him away to some visibal missons not kept him with the leaders.