### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ekdikéō**, represented by `{{G1556}}`, is defined as to vindicate, retaliate, or punish. It appears **6 times** across **6 unique verses** in the Bible. This term specifically addresses the act of seeking or carrying out vengeance, often in the context of rectifying an injustice.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical usage, `{{G1556}}` is found in pleas for justice and declarations of divine judgment. A persistent widow repeatedly asks a judge to **avenge** her of her adversary ([[Luke 18:3]], [[Luke 18:5]]). In Revelation, the souls of martyrs cry out to the Lord, asking when He will judge and **avenge** their blood [[Revelation 6:10]]. This cry is answered later when a heavenly voice declares that God's judgments are true and righteous, for he "hath **avenged** the blood of his servants" [[Revelation 19:2]]. Conversely, believers are directly commanded not to **avenge** themselves but to leave room for God's wrath [[Romans 12:19]]. The term is also used to describe a readiness to **revenge** all disobedience [[2 Corinthians 10:6]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of divine justice and retribution:
* `{{G1557}}` **ekdíkēsis** (vindication, retribution): This is the noun form of the verb, representing the act of vengeance itself. It is found in the declaration, "**Vengeance** is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord" [[Romans 12:19]].
* `{{G2919}}` **krínō** (to judge, condemn, punish): This word for judging is often paired with the act of avenging. The martyrs under the altar ask God to both "**judge** and avenge" their blood [[Revelation 6:10]].
* `{{G3709}}` **orgḗ** (wrath): This term for divine anger is the motivation behind God's vengeance. Believers are told not to avenge themselves but to "give place unto **wrath**" [[Romans 12:19]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1556}}` is significant, highlighting a clear distinction between human retaliation and divine justice.
* **Divine Prerogative:** The act of vengeance is reserved for God alone. Believers are explicitly forbidden from taking matters into their own hands, instructed not to **avenge** themselves because God has stated, "Vengeance is mine; I will **repay**" [[Romans 12:19]].
* **Righteous Judgment:** God's vengeance is not a malicious act but an expression of His just character. His judgments are declared "true and **righteous**" in the very context of Him having **avenged** the innocent blood shed on earth [[Revelation 19:2]].
* **Awaiting Vindication:** The word is used in cries for justice from the oppressed. The pleas of the widow [[Luke 18:3]] and the martyrs [[Revelation 6:10]] demonstrate a faith that God is a righteous judge who will ultimately vindicate His people.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1556}}` is a precise term that defines the execution of justice and punishment. It consistently points to the principle that while humans may cry out to be avenged, the ultimate authority to carry out vengeance rests with God. The word reinforces a core biblical theme: justice will be served, not through human retaliation, but through the perfect and righteous judgment of the Lord.
TRV