### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adjective ἄδικος (ádikos, `{{G94}}`) is formed from the alpha privative (ἀ-), signifying negation, and δίκη (dikē, `{{G1349}}`), meaning "justice" or "right." Thus, its core meaning is "not just," "unjust," or "contrary to right." This fundamental sense extends to encompass a semantic range that includes "unrighteous," "wicked," and by implication, "treacherous." In specific contexts, it can even describe those outside the covenant, hence "heathen," due to their inherent unrighteousness in contrast to God's standards. The word inherently describes a deviation from a moral, legal, or divine standard of uprightness and equity. It points to a state or action that is fundamentally misaligned with what is proper, fair, or righteous according to a given norm, particularly God's revealed will.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term ἄδικος appears in various New Testament contexts, consistently highlighting a departure from justice or righteousness. In the Parable of the Unjust Steward, the steward is explicitly called "unjust" (ἄδικος) in [[Luke 16:8]], not necessarily for his shrewdness, but for his initial mismanagement and wasteful practices. Similarly, the "unjust judge" in [[Luke 18:6]] exemplifies one who disregards both God and people, failing in his judicial duties.
Beyond specific legal or transactional injustice, ἄδικος frequently denotes moral unrighteousness. Paul uses it powerfully in [[1 Corinthians 6:9]] to declare that the "unrighteous" (ἄδικοι) will not inherit the kingdom of God, listing a litany of sinful behaviors that exemplify this unrighteousness. This usage underscores a comprehensive moral failing, not merely an isolated act of injustice. In [[Romans 3:5]], the term appears in a theological argument concerning God's faithfulness versus human unrighteousness, where Paul asks, "If our unrighteousness (ἀδικία, `{{G93}}`) demonstrates the righteousness of God, what shall we say? Is God unjust (ἄδικος) in bringing wrath?" Here, ἄδικος refers to a perceived lack of fairness or equity on God's part, which Paul immediately refutes. Furthermore, in [[Hebrews 6:10]], the author asserts that "God is not unjust (ἄδικος) so as to forget your work and the love you have shown for his name," emphasizing God's perfect rectitude and faithfulness in remembering and rewarding the righteous deeds of His people. These occurrences collectively demonstrate that ἄδικος signifies a profound moral and ethical opposition to divine standards, whether in specific actions or in a general state of being.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of ἄδικος is closely intertwined with several key Greek terms and theological concepts. Its direct antonym is δίκαιος (dikaios, `{{G1342}}`), meaning "just" or "righteous," which shares the same root δίκη (dikē, `{{G1349}}`). The abstract noun form of ἄδικος is ἀδικία (adikia, `{{G93}}`), denoting "unrighteousness," "injustice," or "wickedness," which is frequently paired with ἄδικος in biblical texts. Conversely, the noun form for righteousness is δικαιοσύνη (dikaiosynē, `{{G1343}}`), which represents the positive state or attribute of being just and righteous.
Concepts closely associated with ἄδικος include sin (ἁμαρτία, hamartia, `{{G264}}`), which is often the manifestation of unrighteousness; lawlessness (ἀνομία, anomia, `{{G458}}`), as injustice often involves a disregard for established norms or divine law; and judgment, as the ἄδικος will face divine reckoning for their unrighteousness. The contrast between God's perfect justice and human injustice is a pervasive theme throughout Scripture, making these related terms crucial for understanding the full scope of ἄδικος.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of ἄδικος is profound, as it directly confronts the nature of God and the state of humanity. God is consistently portrayed as perfectly just and righteous, incapable of being ἄδικος ([[Romans 3:5]], [[Hebrews 6:10]]). This divine attribute serves as the ultimate standard against which all human actions and character are measured. Humanity, however, is frequently depicted as inherently ἄδικος, having fallen short of God's glory and righteousness. This unrighteousness is not merely a legal technicality but a deep-seated moral corruption that pervades human nature and manifests in various forms of injustice and wickedness.
The presence of ἄδικος in the world highlights the pervasive nature of sin and the necessity of divine intervention. It underscores the need for salvation and the imputation of God's righteousness, which is made possible through faith in Jesus Christ. Believers are called to renounce their former unrighteous ways and to pursue lives characterized by δίκαιος (righteousness), reflecting the character of God. The ultimate triumph of God's kingdom will involve the complete eradication of all that is ἄδικος, culminating in a new heavens and new earth where righteousness dwells ([[2 Peter 3:13]]).
### Summary
The word ἄδικος (ádikos, `{{G94}}`) fundamentally signifies "unjust" or "unrighteous," derived from its etymological roots meaning "not just." Its semantic range extends to include "wicked" and "treacherous," illustrating a comprehensive deviation from moral, legal, or divine standards. Biblical occurrences consistently use ἄδικος to describe individuals, actions, or states of being that are contrary to God's perfect righteousness and justice. It stands in stark contrast to God's character, who is never ἄδικος, and highlights the fallen state of humanity, whose inherent unrighteousness necessitates divine grace and redemption. The theological weight of ἄδικος underscores the pervasive nature of sin, the certainty of divine judgment against unrighteousness, and the call for believers to pursue lives of righteousness in anticipation of God's just and righteous kingdom.
TRV