### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
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**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
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]].
### Related Words & Concepts
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]].
### Theological Significance
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]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2917}}` **kríma** is a multifaceted term that conveys the gravity of a decision and its consequences. Its meaning extends from a civil proceeding [[1 Corinthians 6:7]] to the profound and **unsearchable** `{{G419}}` **judgments** of God [[Romans 11:33]]. Depending on the context, this decision can result in vindication, as when God **avenged** His people [[Revelation 18:20]], or in a sentence of **damnation** for sin and unbelief [[Romans 13:2]]. The word powerfully reinforces the biblical themes of moral accountability, divine justice, and the ultimate resolution of all things according to God's perfect will.
TRV