The Greek word kríma, represented by G2917, is derived from the verb κρίνω (to judge) and fundamentally means a decision or its resulting effect, whether for or against an individual. Appearing 28 times across 28 unique verses, its scriptural usage covers a range of meanings, including judgment, condemnation, damnation, and the civil action of going to law.
Beyond simply a decision, G2917 often carries the weight of a pronounced verdict or sentence, signifying the authoritative determination of a matter. It is the objective outcome or consequence that flows from the act of judging (G2919), rather than the act itself. This distinction is crucial, as kríma frequently denotes a fixed and often irreversible decree, whether it be a legal pronouncement in human courts or a divine judgment with eternal implications. Its usage emphasizes the finality and impact of such a determination on the individual or entity concerned.
In biblical contexts, G2917 is frequently used to describe God's divine judgment, which is always in accordance with truth G225 Romans 2:2 and is considered part of His unsearchable G419 wisdom Romans 11:33. The word also applies to human affairs, such as the legal disputes Paul admonished against in the church, referring to them as going to law 1 Corinthians 6:7. Jesus uses the term to establish a principle of reciprocity, stating that the judgment one uses will be the measure used against them Matthew 7:2. In its most severe sense, it signifies a final, negative sentence, such as the damnation awaiting those who resist God's appointed authorities Romans 13:2 or the condemnation that can befall a prideful novice G3504 1 Timothy 3:6.
The term G2917 also illuminates the nature of judgment within the Christian community itself, particularly concerning spiritual discernment and conduct. The Apostle Paul warns believers that partaking of the Lord's Supper "unworthily" results in eating and drinking "damnation to himself" 1 Corinthians 11:29, and coming together "unto condemnation" 1 Corinthians 11:34. This highlights an internal, self-imposed kríma for a lack of proper spiritual recognition and reverence. Furthermore, G2917 underscores the certainty of future accountability for those who reject God's truth, as seen in the "judgment to come" that caused Felix to tremble Acts 24:25, and the "damnation" of the covetous whose "judgment now of a long time lingereth not" 2 Peter 2:3.
Several related words help clarify the scope of G2917:
- G2919 krínō (to distinguish, i.e. decide): As the root verb for kríma, this word refers to the act of judging, deciding, or condemning. The direct connection is seen when Jesus warns that the judgment G2917 one receives depends on how one chooses to judge G2919 others Matthew 7:2.
- G2631 katákrima (an adverse sentence): This term specifies the negative outcome of a judgment, a verdict of condemnation. It appears alongside kríma to contrast the result of a single offense with the justifying power of God's grace Romans 5:16.
- G1345 dikaíōma (an equitable deed; by implication, a statute or decision): Often used in contrast to condemnation, this word refers to a righteous statute or act of justification. One passage explains how a single judgment G2917 led to condemnation G2631, but a free gift led to justification G1345 Romans 5:16.
- G2920 krísis (judgment, accusation): While kríma is the specific verdict or sentence pronounced, krísis more broadly refers to the act or process of judging, the occasion of judgment (like a "day of judgment"), or even the moral assessment and discernment itself. krísis can describe the crisis point where a decision is made, whereas kríma is the decision's definite consequence.
The theological weight of G2917 is significant, highlighting key doctrines of accountability and divine justice.
- Divine Sovereignty and Accountability: The concept of G2917 establishes that God's judgment is an inescapable reality. It is described as an "eternal judgment" Hebrews 6:2 that must begin G756 with the household of God, showing that all are accountable to Him 1 Peter 4:17.
- The Basis for Judgment: Scripture indicates that judgment or condemnation is a consequence of actions and beliefs. Those who hypocritically devour G2719 the houses of widows G5503 will receive greater damnation G2917 Mark 12:40, and those who cast off G114 their first faith G4102 incur damnation G2917 1 Timothy 5:12.
- Judgment as a Revealing Act: Jesus declares that He came into the world for judgment G2917, an act that reveals the true spiritual state of individuals, causing the blind G5185 to see and those who claim to see to become blind John 9:39.
- Judgment Entrusted to the Saints: In the eschatological vision of Revelation, judgment G2917 is given G1325 to those who sit on thrones G2362—the saints who were martyred for their witness G3141 and had not worshipped the beast G2342 Revelation 20:4.
- Self-Inflicted Judgment and Ecclesiastical Accountability: G2917 vividly portrays how individuals can incur judgment upon themselves through their actions and attitudes, especially within the context of the church. This is powerfully demonstrated in the warning against approaching the Lord's Supper without due reverence, leading to "damnation" or "condemnation" for the participant 1 Corinthians 11:29, 1 Corinthians 11:34. This usage emphasizes a personal, immediate spiritual consequence for a lack of discernment and holiness, serving as a solemn call to self-examination and repentance within the body of Christ.
The Greek term G2917 kríma encapsulates the profound concept of a decisive verdict and its ensuing consequences. Rooted in the act of judging, it transcends mere opinion to represent an authoritative sentence, whether originating from human legal proceedings or, more significantly, from the divine will. This word is crucial for understanding biblical themes of accountability, justice, and the ultimate resolution of moral and spiritual matters. Its scope ranges from civil disputes among believers 1 Corinthians 6:7 to the unsearchable judgments of God that reveal His wisdom Romans 11:33.
G2917 frequently denotes a negative sentence, often translated as "condemnation" or "damnation," particularly for those who resist divine authority Romans 13:2 or fall from faith 1 Timothy 5:12. However, it also points to God's righteous avenging and vindication, as seen in the judgment against spiritual Babylon Revelation 18:20. The word highlights the principle of reciprocity in judgment Matthew 7:2 and serves as a solemn warning against hypocrisy and spiritual pride Luke 20:47, 1 Timothy 3:6. Furthermore, it underscores the certainty of future judgment for the ungodly, a "judgment to come" that is inevitable and inescapable Acts 24:25, 2 Peter 2:3.
Crucially, G2917 also addresses the concept of self-inflicted judgment, particularly within the ecclesiastical sphere. The Apostle Paul's admonition regarding the Lord's Supper reveals that partaking unworthily brings "damnation to himself" 1 Corinthians 11:29, emphasizing a personal, internal kríma for a lack of spiritual discernment. This underscores that judgment is not solely an external imposition but can be incurred by one's own actions in relation to divine ordinances. Ultimately, kríma consistently conveys the gravity of a determined outcome, shaping the biblical understanding of moral responsibility and the ultimate triumph of God's justice.
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