### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **dîyn**, represented by `{{H1779}}`, encompasses concepts of **judgement**, **cause**, and **strife**. It appears **20 times** across **17 unique verses** in the Bible. Derived from the root `{{H1777}}`, it refers not just to a legal sentence or tribunal but also to a person's legal standing, a plea in a dispute, or the conflict itself.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H1779}}` is frequently used in the context of social justice, referring to the **cause** of the poor, needy, and fatherless ([[Jeremiah 22:16]], [[Psalms 140:12]], [[Jeremiah 5:28]]). It also appears in a formal legal sense, as seen in Deuteronomy where procedures are outlined for disputes involving "plea{H1779} and plea{H1779}" [[Deuteronomy 17:8]]. The word is tied to righteous governance, with a king sitting on a "throne of **judgement**" to scatter evil [[Proverbs 20:8]], and it can also signify conflict, where casting out a scorner causes **strife** to cease [[Proverbs 22:10]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concepts of judgment and justice:
* `{{H1777}}` **dîyn** (or דּוּן; a primitive root; a straight course, i.e. sail direct): As the primitive root of `{{H1779}}`, this word is used in contexts of judging a cause [[Jeremiah 22:16]].
* `{{H4941}}` **mishpâṭ** (a verdict, sentence, or formal decree; abstractly, justice): Often appearing alongside `{{H1779}}`, this word refers to a formal decree or the principle of justice. God will maintain the cause `{{H1779}}` and the right `{{H4941}}` of the poor [[Psalms 140:12]].
* `{{H4066}}` **mâdôwn** (a contest or quarrel; brawling, contention, discord, strife): Derived from the same root as `{{H1779}}`, this word highlights the aspect of contention. In Proverbs, removing a scorner causes both contention `{{H4066}}` and strife `{{H1779}}` to end [[Proverbs 22:10]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H1779}}` is significant, particularly in its call for social righteousness.
* **Advocacy for the Helpless:** The term is repeatedly connected to the responsibility of defending the **cause** of the poor, needy, fatherless, and the dumb ([[Proverbs 31:8]], [[Psalms 140:12]]). To judge the **cause** of the poor is presented as a way to "know" the LORD [[Jeremiah 22:16]].
* **Divine and Royal Judgment:** `{{H1779}}` signifies the seat of authority. God maintains a person's **cause** from His throne [[Psalms 9:4]], and a righteous king sits on a "throne of **judgement**" to administer justice [[Proverbs 20:8]]. It is affirmed that **judgement** is always before God [[Job 35:14]].
* **Consequences of Injustice:** Neglecting one's duty to uphold justice carries severe warnings. Those who grow fat but fail to judge the **cause** of the fatherless are condemned [[Jeremiah 5:28]]. A woe is declared for those who turn the needy from **judgement** [[Isaiah 10:2]], and fulfilling the **judgement** of the wicked results in being held by that same judgment [[Job 36:17]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H1779}}` **dîyn** is a vital term for understanding biblical justice. It moves beyond a simple legal definition to encompass the moral and spiritual duty to defend the **cause** of the vulnerable. It establishes that true **judgement** flows from God's throne and is to be reflected in righteous human leadership. Ultimately, how one handles the **plea** of the powerless is a direct reflection of their relationship with God.
TRV