from δίκαιος; equity (of character or act); specially (Christian) justification:--righteousness.
Transliteration:dikaiosýnē
Pronunciation:dik-ah-yos-oo'-nay
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek noun δικαιοσύνη (dikaiosýnē, `{{G1343}}`) is a profound and multifaceted term, derived from the adjective δίκαιος (dikaios, `{{G1342}}`), meaning "just" or "righteous." At its core, dikaiosýnē signifies a state of conformity to a standard of rectitude, encompassing both character and action. Its semantic range extends from general equity and justice in a societal or ethical sense to a specific theological meaning of "righteousness" or "justification" in the Christian tradition. In its broadest sense, it denotes what is right, proper, or just, whether in human conduct, divine attributes, or legal declarations. It can describe inherent moral uprightness (as in God's nature) or a declared status of being right before God (justification).
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Dikaiosýnē is a pivotal term throughout the New Testament, appearing over 90 times. In the Gospels, particularly Matthew, it often refers to ethical conduct that aligns with God's will and pleases Him (e.g., [[Matthew 3:15]], where Jesus fulfills "all righteousness"; [[Matthew 5:6]], the hunger and thirst for righteousness; [[Matthew 6:33]], seeking God's kingdom and righteousness). Here, it often carries the connotation of a devout life lived in obedience.
However, it is in the Pauline epistles that dikaiosýnē takes on its most profound theological significance, particularly in Romans and Galatians. Paul frequently speaks of the "righteousness of God" (δικαιοσύνη θεοῦ), which is not merely an attribute of God but also a righteousness that God provides or imputes to humanity. This divine righteousness is revealed "from faith to faith" ([[Romans 1:17]]) and is available "through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe" ([[Romans 3:22]]). Paul contrasts this God-given righteousness with a righteousness based on human works of the law, which is ultimately insufficient ([[Romans 9:30-32]], [[Philippians 3:9]]). The concept of dikaiosýnē in Paul is thus intrinsically linked to the doctrine of justification by faith, where God declares a sinner righteous on the basis of Christ's atoning work, apart from human merit ([[Romans 4:5]]). This forensic (legal) declaration is foundational to salvation. Yet, Paul also connects this imputed righteousness to an ethical outworking, where believers are called to live righteously as a fruit of their new identity in Christ ([[Romans 6:18-19]], [[Ephesians 4:24]]).
### Related Words & Concepts
The understanding of dikaiosýnē is greatly enriched by examining its linguistic family and theological counterparts:
* **δίκαιος (dikaios, `{{G1342}}`):** The adjectival root, meaning "just, righteous." This describes the quality or character of one who possesses dikaiosýnē.
* **δικαιόω (dikaioō, `{{G1344}}`):** The verb form, meaning "to declare righteous, to justify." This term describes the divine act by which God grants dikaiosýnē to believers. The noun dikaiosýnē often refers to the *result* or *state* of being justified.
* **δικαίωμα (dikaiōma, `{{G1345}}`):** A righteous deed, ordinance, or requirement.
* **δικαίωσις (dikaiōsis, `{{G1347}}`):** The act of justification, acquittal.
* **Old Testament Parallels:** In the Septuagint, dikaiosýnē frequently translates the Hebrew terms צֶדֶק (tzedeq, `{{H6664}}`) and צְדָקָה (tzedakah, `{{H6666}}`). These Hebrew words encompass not only moral rectitude and justice but also covenant faithfulness and the fulfillment of obligations, often with an emphasis on God's saving acts. This rich background informs the New Testament usage, particularly the idea of God's saving righteousness.
* **Key Concepts:** Law, grace, faith, sin, salvation, sanctification, covenant. Dikaiosýnē stands in stark contrast to ἁμαρτία (hamartia, `{{G266}}`), sin.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of dikaiosýnē is immense and central to Christian doctrine:
1. **Divine Attribute:** Dikaiosýnē is an inherent and essential attribute of God. God is perfectly righteous and just in His character and all His dealings. His righteousness serves as the ultimate standard for all creation.
2. **Human Condition:** The Bible teaches that humanity, due to sin, lacks true dikaiosýnē before God ([[Romans 3:10-12]]). This creates an insurmountable barrier between God and humanity.
3. **Means of Salvation:** The "righteousness of God" revealed in the Gospel is the means by which God addresses the problem of human sin. It is not a righteousness earned by human effort, but one freely given by God through faith in Jesus Christ. This is the doctrine of justification by faith, where God, in His perfect justice and mercy, declares believing sinners righteous on the basis of Christ's perfect obedience and sacrificial death.
4. **Ethical Imperative:** While dikaiosýnē is primarily a gift received by faith, it also mandates an ethical response. Those who have been declared righteous are called to live righteously, demonstrating the transformative power of the Gospel in their lives ([[Ephesians 4:24]], [[1 John 3:7]]). This ethical dikaiosýnē is the fruit of the Spirit and a manifestation of genuine faith.
5. **Eschatological Hope:** The ultimate fulfillment of God's dikaiosýnē will be realized in the new heavens and new earth, where "righteousness dwells" ([[2 Peter 3:13]]). This future hope underscores the comprehensive nature of God's redemptive plan.
### Summary
Dikaiosýnē (`{{G1343}}`) is a foundational biblical concept referring to righteousness or justice. It describes both the inherent moral perfection of God and the standard of right conduct for humanity. Crucially, in the New Testament, particularly in Paul's writings, it also denotes the divine act of declaring sinners righteous through faith in Jesus Christ, a concept known as justification. This "righteousness of God" is a gift, not an achievement, and it forms the basis of salvation. While forensic in its primary application to believers, dikaiosýnē also carries an imperative for transformed, ethical living as a tangible expression of one's new identity in Christ. It is a term that beautifully encapsulates God's character, humanity's need, and the glorious provision of the Gospel.
TRV