from ἄδικος; to be unjust, i.e. (actively) do wrong (morally, socially or physically):--hurt, injure, be an offender, be unjust, (do, suffer, take) wrong.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **adikéō**, represented by `{{G91}}`, defines the act of being **unjust** or doing wrong. It appears 36 times across 23 unique verses in the Bible. Derived from a root meaning unjust, its scope covers actions that are morally, socially, or physically wrong, and can be translated as to hurt, injure, be an offender, or to suffer or take wrong.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G91}}` is applied in various contexts, from physical harm to interpersonal injustice. In the book of Revelation, angelic beings are commanded not to **hurt** the earth or the sea [[Revelation 7:2-3]], and demonic locusts are given power to **hurt** men [[Revelation 9:10]]. Jesus promises his followers protection, stating that "nothing shall by any means **hurt** you" [[Luke 10:19]]. On a social level, Paul confronts believers who **do wrong** to their brethren [[1 Corinthians 6:8]] and asks why they do not instead "rather take **wrong**" than go to court [[1 Corinthians 6:7]]. Paul also uses the term to defend his own actions, declaring "to the Jews have I done no **wrong**" [[Acts 25:10]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of injustice and its opposite:
* `{{G1342}}` **díkaios** (just, right(-eous)): This word describes what is equitable and is the direct contrast to being unjust. It is used to describe what is **right** in God's eyes, such as children obeying their parents [[Ephesians 6:1]], and appears in opposition to `{{G91}}` in [[Revelation 22:11]].
* `{{G1344}}` **dikaióō** (to justify, be righteous): As the verb form, this means to render or regard as just. It is used to explain the doctrine that a person is **justified** by faith [[Romans 5:1]] and not by works of the law [[Galatians 2:16]].
* `{{G650}}` **aposteréō** (to despoil, defraud): This term specifies a particular kind of injustice related to fraud or depriving someone of what is theirs. Paul uses it alongside `{{G91}}` when he asks the Corinthians why they do not rather "suffer yourselves to be **defrauded**" [[1 Corinthians 6:7]].
* `{{G5351}}` **phtheírō** (to corrupt, defile, destroy): This word points to the ruinous and depraving nature of certain actions. Paul declares that he and his companions have **wronged** no one and have **corrupted** no one [[2 Corinthians 7:2]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G91}}` is significant, highlighting principles of justice and accountability.
* **Divine Accountability:** The concept of absolute divine justice is clear: "he that doeth **wrong** shall receive for the **wrong** which he hath done: and there is no **respect of persons**" [[Colossians 3:25]]. This establishes that all unjust acts have consequences before God.
* **Harm and Injustice:** `{{G91}}` encompasses both physical **hurt**, as seen in the apocalyptic judgments [[Revelation 9:4]], and moral or social **wrong**, such as when one person wrongs another [[Acts 7:26]]. This connects sinful actions to their tangible, harmful results.
* **Conduct Within the Church:** The term is used to set a standard for believers. Paul uses it to address internal conflicts, admonishing the church for doing **wrong** and defrauding one another, actions that are contrary to their calling [[1 Corinthians 6:8]].
* **Final States:** In Revelation, a person's relationship with justice is shown as a final state. The one who is **unjust** is commanded to "be **unjust** still" [[Revelation 22:11]], contrasted with the righteous, underscoring the eternal significance of one's actions.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G91}}` is far more than a simple term for wrongdoing. It functions as a foundational word for understanding injustice in its many forms, from physical injury inflicted by supernatural forces to the moral and social wrongs committed between people. It serves as a stark reminder of divine accountability for all actions and establishes a clear distinction between the path of injustice and the path of righteousness that believers are called to follow.
TRV