### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **díkē**, represented by `{{G1349}}`, refers to **right**, **justice**, or its execution as **judgment**, **punishment**, or **vengeance**. It appears **4 times** across **4 unique verses** in the Bible, indicating its specific and potent application in scripture.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G1349}}` appears in contexts of both human and divine justice. It is used to describe a formal legal request for **judgment** against Paul by the Jewish elders [[Acts 25:15]]. In a more personified sense, barbarians on an island see it as an inescapable **vengeance** that does not allow a murderer to live, even after he has survived a shipwreck [[Acts 28:4]]. The term is also used to describe divine retribution, as seen when Sodom and Gomorrah suffer the **vengeance** of eternal fire [[Jude 1:7]], and when those who disobey God are to **be punished** with everlasting destruction [[2 Thessalonians 1:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the function and consequence of `{{G1349}}`:
* `{{G5099}}` **tínō** (to pay a price, i.e. as a penalty): This verb is paired directly with `{{G1349}}` to signify the act of having to pay a price, as when the unrighteous **shall be punished** with destruction [[2 Thessalonians 1:9]].
* `{{G3639}}` **ólethros** (ruin, i.e. death, punishment): This noun specifies the nature of the penalty, describing the outcome of divine justice as everlasting **destruction** [[2 Thessalonians 1:9]].
* `{{G154}}` **aitéō** (to ask): This word is used in a legal context where Jewish leaders **desire** or "ask" for judgment to be executed against an individual [[Acts 25:15]].
* `{{G1164}}` **deîgma** (a specimen (as shown):--example): This term highlights the purpose of divine vengeance, where the fate of Sodom and Gomorrah serves as an **example** to others [[Jude 1:7]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1349}}` is centered on the certainty of consequences for sin.
* **Divine Judgment on Sin:** `{{G1349}}` is used to articulate the results of disobedience. The punishment for those who reject God is "everlasting **destruction**" from His presence [[2 Thessalonians 1:9]], and the "eternal fire" suffered by Sodom and Gomorrah is presented as **vengeance** for their actions [[Jude 1:7]].
* **Justice as an Inevitable Principle:** The account in Acts shows a belief in justice as a personified, inescapable force. The islanders see Paul's misfortune as proof that **vengeance** will ultimately find a wrongdoer, even one who has escaped a different fate [[Acts 28:4]].
* **Punishment as a Public Example:** Divine justice serves not only as retribution but also as a warning. The cities of Sodom and Gomorrah are "set forth for an **example**" `{{G1164}}` by suffering the **vengeance** of God, demonstrating the consequences of sin to others [[Jude 1:7]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1349}}` **díkē** is a focused term for justice manifested as judgment or vengeance. Though it appears only four times, its use is significant, spanning from a human request for legal **judgment** [[Acts 25:15]] to a perceived inescapable **vengeance** [[Acts 28:4]]. Theologically, it establishes the certainty of divine retribution for sin, portraying a justice that is both a final punishment and a solemn warning to others. It underscores the principle that actions have consequences, whether in a human court or before the presence of the Lord.
TRV