### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **dikaióō**, represented by `{{G1344}}`, means to **render just or innocent**. It appears 48 times across 36 unique verses. The term signifies a declaration of righteousness, as in being shown or regarded as just, rather than an earned status. It is a pivotal word for understanding the concept of justification in the New Testament.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G1344}}` is central to the doctrine of salvation. It is most frequently used to contrast justification by faith against justification by works. A person is "not **justified** by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ" [[Galatians 2:16]]. This act of being **justified** is presented as a gift of God's `{{G5485}}` grace, occurring "freely... through the `{{G629}}` redemption that is in `{{G5547}}` Christ Jesus" [[Romans 3:24]]. The outcome of being **justified** by `{{G4102}}` faith is `{{G1515}}` peace with `{{G2316}}` God [[Romans 5:1]]. The term can also describe God's own righteousness, as in "That thou mightest be **justified** in thy sayings" [[Romans 3:4]], or a human attempt at self-righteousness, as when certain people **justify** themselves before men [[Luke 16:15]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the meaning of being justified:
* `{{G1342}}` **díkaios** (just, righteous): This is the root adjective from which `{{G1344}}` is derived, describing the quality of being equitable or innocent. The Bible distinguishes between being `{{G1342}}` just and being `{{G1344}}` justified, noting that "the doers of the law shall be **justified**" [[Romans 2:13]], not merely the hearers.
* `{{G1343}}` **dikaiosýnē** (righteousness): This noun refers to the state of equity or justification itself. For the one who believes in God who **justifies** the ungodly, his faith is counted for `{{G1343}}` righteousness [[Romans 4:5]].
* `{{G4102}}` **pístis** (faith): Defined as reliance upon Christ for salvation, `{{G4102}}` faith is the designated means by which a person is **justified**. The law served as a schoolmaster to bring people to Christ, "that we might be **justified** by `{{G4102}}` faith" [[Galatians 3:24]].
* `{{G5485}}` **cháris** (grace): This refers to God's divine influence and favor. It is the basis for justification, so that believers are "**justified** by his `{{G5485}}` grace" and made heirs of eternal life [[Titus 3:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1344}}` is foundational to Christian doctrine.
* **Justification by Faith:** Scripture repeatedly concludes that "a man is **justified** by faith without the deeds of the law" [[Romans 3:28]]. It clarifies that by the works of the law "shall no flesh be **justified**" [[Galatians 2:16]].
* **A Divine Act:** Justification is an act performed by God, not achieved by man. The question is posed, "Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God's elect? It is God that **justifieth**" [[Romans 8:33]]. He is the one who **justifies** the ungodly who believe [[Romans 4:5]].
* **A Component of Salvation:** Being **justified** is intrinsically linked to salvation from God's `{{G3709}}` wrath. After being "**justified** by his blood, we shall be `{{G4982}}` saved from wrath through him" [[Romans 5:9]].
* **Linked to Sanctification and Glorification:** Justification is part of a divine sequence of redemption. Those whom God called, "them he also **justified**: and whom he **justified**, them he also glorified" [[Romans 8:30]]. It is presented alongside being washed and sanctified as a status of believers [[1 Corinthians 6:11]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1344}}` **dikaióō** is a crucial legal and theological term that means to be declared righteous. It is not about a person achieving a state of innocence through their own efforts, but about receiving a declaration of righteousness from God. This justification is a gift of grace received through faith in Jesus Christ, forming the basis for peace with God and serving as a vital step in the believer's journey toward ultimate glorification.
TRV