parshat Shoftim

As is our practice each year on Parashat Shoftim, we will deal with a matter that is connected to our network of batei din, “Eretz Hemdah-Gazit.” Our parasha opens: “Judges and officers you shall appoint in all of your gateways … and they shall judge the nation a judgment of justice” (Devarim 16:18). Consequently, the Torah commands us to have a set court apparatus, with a cadre of dayanim ready to serve, and from them three judges will be chosen for each case.

Why would we countenance vigilantism? Does the Torah really want to promote the "law of the jungle?"