### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **dikaíōs**, represented by `{{G1346}}`, is an adverb meaning to act equitably, justly, or righteously. It is derived from the word δίκαιος and appears **5 times** across **5 unique verses** in the Bible. The term defines an action or state that is in alignment with a righteous standard.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G1346}}` describes both divine and human action. It is presented as a core component of the Christian life, as believers are taught to live **righteously** in the present world [[Titus 2:12]]. This is contrasted with ungodliness and worldly lusts. The apostles described their own conduct among believers as having been holily and **justly** [[1 Thessalonians 2:10]]. The term also defines the nature of God's judgment; Christ, when he suffered, committed himself to God who "judgeth **righteously**" [[1 Peter 2:23]]. Finally, it is used to acknowledge just consequences, as when the thief on the cross admits that he and his companion are condemned **justly** for their deeds [[Luke 23:41]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help to frame the meaning of acting justly:
* `{{G2153}}` **eusebōs** (piously): This adverb appears alongside **dikaíōs** to describe the expected Christian life, calling for believers to live soberly, righteously, and **godly** [[Titus 2:12]].
* `{{G274}}` **amémptōs** (faultlessly): This is used in a list with **dikaíōs** to describe the blameless and upright manner in which the apostles behaved among the Thessalonian believers [[1 Thessalonians 2:10]].
* `{{G2919}}` **krínō** (to judge): This verb is directly qualified by **dikaíōs** in the description of God, who is the one that "judgeth **righteously**," establishing the perfect standard of justice [[1 Peter 2:23]].
* `{{G264}}` **hamartánō** (to sin): This is presented as the direct opposite of righteous action. Believers are called to "Awake to righteousness, and **sin** not" [[1 Corinthians 15:34]].
* `{{G824}}` **átopos** (amiss): This word, meaning improper or wicked, is used to describe what Christ did *not* do, in contrast to the criminals who were justly condemned [[Luke 23:41]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1346}}` is significant, highlighting a standard that applies to God, Christ, and believers.
* **The Standard of Christian Conduct:** The word establishes a key ethical requirement for believers. It is not enough to simply deny ungodliness; one must actively live **righteously** and godly as part of their sanctification [[Titus 2:12]]. Paul's own example of behaving **justly** and unblameably reinforces this standard [[1 Thessalonians 2:10]].
* **The Foundation of Divine Justice:** God's character is the ultimate source of righteousness. He is the one who judges **righteously**, a truth that gave Christ the confidence to endure unjust suffering without retaliating [[1 Peter 2:23]].
* **The Recognition of Righteous Judgment:** The term underscores the principle of just consequences. The thief's confession that he was punished **justly** affirms a moral order where deeds have due rewards, which in turn highlights the injustice of Christ's own crucifixion [[Luke 23:41]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1346}}` provides a crucial adverbial lens for understanding righteousness in action. It moves beyond a theoretical concept to describe the practical outworking of justice in both divine and human spheres. Whether defining the character of God's judgment, the required conduct of a believer, or the fair consequence of sin, **dikaíōs** consistently points to a life and a universe governed by an equitable and righteous standard.
TRV