### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **euthýtēs**, represented by `{{G2118}}`, is a term for **rectitude** or **righteousness**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Its singular appearance powerfully associates the concept of perfect rectitude with the nature of divine authority.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole use of `{{G2118}}` is in [[Hebrews 1:8]]. In this passage, the word is used to describe a king's symbol of power, stating, "a sceptre of **righteousness** is the sceptre of thy kingdom." This directly connects the concept of **righteousness** to the authority and reign of the Son, who is addressed as "O God" within the same verse, establishing His rule as being founded on perfect rectitude.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words from its only appearance in [[Hebrews 1:8]] provide a fuller context:
* `{{G4464}}` **rhábdos** (a stick or wand (as a cudgel, a cane or a baton of royalty):--rod, sceptre, staff): This word for "sceptre" is the object described by `{{G2118}}`, directly linking righteousness to the symbol of royal authority [[Hebrews 1:8]].
* `{{G932}}` **basileía** (properly, royalty, i.e. (abstractly) rule, or (concretely) a realm (literally or figuratively):--kingdom, + reign): This term for "kingdom" establishes the domain over which the sceptre of righteousness holds sway [[Hebrews 1:8]].
* `{{G2316}}` **theós** (a deity, especially (with ὁ) the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very:--X exceeding, God, god(-ly, -ward)): The Son is addressed as God in this verse, indicating that the righteousness of His rule is a divine characteristic [[Hebrews 1:8]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2118}}` is concentrated in its single, powerful use.
* **Foundation of Divine Rule:** The word is used to define the "sceptre," a symbol of a king's power. This establishes that the Son's authority is not arbitrary but is founded on perfect rectitude [[Hebrews 1:8]].
* **Attribute of the Son:** By describing the sceptre of the Son's kingdom, **righteousness** is presented as an inherent quality of His reign and character [[Hebrews 1:8]].
* **Nature of the Kingdom:** The term clarifies that the Son's kingdom is a realm governed by **righteousness**, where justice and rectitude are the standards of rule [[Hebrews 1:8]].
### Summary
In summary, while `{{G2118}}` appears only once, its impact is significant. It is used specifically to characterize the nature of the Son's kingly authority. Its placement in [[Hebrews 1:8]] powerfully illustrates that the Son's eternal kingdom is defined by absolute rectitude, with His sceptre symbolizing a reign of perfect **righteousness**.
TRV