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Our sages of blessed memory (in Chapter 1) instruct: judge every person favorably—“to the scale of merit”—because when there is a dispute concerning someone, one must investigate to find merit in that person regarding the matter under dispute. One should judge in that person’s favor because the dispute may arise not due to wrongdoing but because the other party is on a higher spiritual level. Thus, one disputes that he has not yet reached that level. One must strive to reach the level of his fellow so that they may be on equal footing; then the dispute ceases.
Sometimes the reverse occurs: the one making the judgment is spiritually greater, and the other disputes due to jealousy or inability to reach that level. In that case, one must still judge his fellow favorably, thereby elevating the other person. Once both stand on the same level, controversy dissolves—since differences cause disputes, whether one is greater or lesser. But when two people share the same spiritual position, there is no arena for dispute. That is the meaning of: “Do not judge your fellow until you reach his place.” —meaning, strive to stand with him at his level, whichever of the two sides is under consideration. Then, certainly, there will be no contention, because in one state there is no room for dispute.
By judging everyone on the scale of merit—that is, judging accurately—you act in truth and justice. It is known that before one ascends to a new level, one is judged. Therefore, when you judge someone favorably and raise him to a higher level, you align with justice—and as justice departs, so it stands.
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