### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **kritḗrion**, represented by `{{G2922}}`, refers to a tribunal or a place of judgment. It appears **3 times** in **3 unique verses** in the Bible. Its base definition is a rule of judging or, by implication, a tribunal, and is translated as **judgment** or **judgment seats**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the New Testament, `{{G2922}}` is used to denote both the act of judging and the place where judgment occurs. In his letter to the Corinthians, Paul questions why believers, who will one day judge the world, would be considered unworthy to handle **judgments** `{{G2922}}` on even the smallest matters [[1 Corinthians 6:2]]. He instructs that for **judgments** `{{G2922}}` pertaining to this life, they should appoint members from within the church to decide the issue [[1 Corinthians 6:4]]. James uses the term to refer to a formal tribunal, highlighting how the rich oppress the poor and drag them before **judgment seats** `{{G2922}}` [[James 2:6]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the concept of judgment and tribunals:
* `{{G2919}}` **krínō** (to try, condemn, punish): This verb means to distinguish or decide, either mentally or judicially. It is used alongside `{{G2922}}` to describe the future role of saints who shall **judge** the world [[1 Corinthians 6:2]].
* `{{G1670}}` **helkýō** (to drag): This term describes the forceful action of bringing someone to a place. It is used in the context of the rich who **draw** the poor before judgment seats [[James 2:6]].
* `{{G2523}}` **kathízō** (to set, sit down): This word means to seat down or appoint. Paul uses it to instruct the Corinthians to **set** members of the church to handle internal judgments [[1 Corinthians 6:4]].
### Theological Significance
The use of `{{G2922}}` carries significant theological weight concerning the church's authority and responsibility.
* **Church Autonomy in Judgment:** Paul's instruction to the Corinthians indicates that the church is equipped to handle its own internal disputes. By establishing **judgments** `{{G2922}}` for matters "pertaining to this life" [[1 Corinthians 6:4]], believers are called to a standard of self-governance.
* **The Believer's Future Authority:** The concept is elevated from earthly matters to an eschatological reality. The fact that saints will "judge the world" is used as the basis for their qualification to **judge** even the "smallest matters" on earth [[1 Corinthians 6:2]].
* **Contrast with Worldly Justice:** James presents worldly **judgment seats** `{{G2922}}` as places of oppression, where the rich exploit the poor [[James 2:6]]. This creates a sharp contrast with the ideal of justice that should be practiced within the community of faith.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2922}}` is a focused term that designates a tribunal or judgment. While appearing only three times, it establishes a crucial principle of the church's responsibility to handle its own affairs. It contrasts the potential for injustice in worldly **judgment seats** with the future authority given to the saints, who will ultimately **judge** far greater matters. The word therefore defines a practical area of church life and points toward a significant theological promise.
TRV