### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tsaddîyq**, represented by `{{H6662}}`, is a foundational term for **just** or **righteous**. It appears 206 times across 197 unique verses in the Bible. Derived from the root for "just," it describes a person who is lawful and righteous, not only in their actions but in their fundamental standing.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H6662}}` is used in several key contexts. It identifies individuals whom God sees as righteous, such as Noah, who was a **just** man, perfect in his generations [[Genesis 6:9]]. The term is frequently used to draw a sharp contrast between the character and destiny of the **righteous** and the wicked ([[Proverbs 28:1]], [[Malachi 3:18]]). Importantly, the word is also applied to God himself, describing his nature as inherently **just** and right [[Deuteronomy 32:4]]. It also carries prophetic weight, pointing to a future King who would come as a **righteous** Branch [[Jeremiah 23:5]] and a **just** savior [[Zechariah 9:9]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of righteousness and moral standing:
* `{{H7563}}` **râshâʻ** (morally wrong; concretely, an (actively) bad person): As the direct antonym, this word defines the state of being **wicked**. It is frequently contrasted with the righteous to highlight differences in character, action, and ultimate destiny [[Proverbs 28:1]].
* `{{H6666}}` **tsᵉdâqâh** (rightness (abstractly), subjectively (rectitude), objectively (justice), morally (virtue) or figuratively (prosperity)): This noun form represents the quality of **righteousness** itself. Scripture notes that the righteousness of the righteous will be upon him, just as the wickedness of the wicked will be upon him [[Ezekiel 18:20]].
* `{{H3477}}` **yâshâr** (straight (literally or figuratively); convenient, equity, Jasher, just, meet(-est), right(-eous), straight, (most) upright(-ly, -ness)): This term for **upright** often appears alongside **tsaddîyq**, describing one who is straight or right in their ways. God is described as both just and **right** [[Deuteronomy 32:4]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6662}}` is immense, defining the relationship between God and humanity.
* **The Standard of Righteousness:** The ultimate standard for justice is God's own character. He is described as a **just** God and a Saviour [[Isaiah 45:21]], and the LORD is **righteous** in all His ways [[Psalms 145:17]].
* **Divine Care and Deliverance:** The **righteous** are under God's special protection. Though they may face many afflictions, the LORD delivers them [[Psalms 34:19]], upholds them [[Psalms 37:17]], and will not allow them to be forsaken [[Psalms 37:25]].
* **A Prophetic Title:** The term is used prophetically to identify the coming King. Jeremiah speaks of a **righteous** Branch from the line of David who will reign and execute justice [[Jeremiah 23:5]], and Zechariah describes the coming King as **just** and having salvation [[Zechariah 9:9]].
* **Life by Faith:** A key theological principle is established that the **just** shall live by his faith, indicating that righteousness is linked to a steadfast trust in God [[Habakkuk 2:4]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6662}}` is far more than a simple label for good behavior. It signifies a state of being **just** and **righteous** that is foundational to biblical theology. It defines the very nature of God, who is perfectly **just** [[Deuteronomy 32:4]], and it describes the character and destiny of those who walk in His ways. From Noah, the **just** man in his generation [[Genesis 6:9]], to the promised **righteous** Branch [[Jeremiah 23:5]], the concept of **tsaddîyq** illustrates the path of faithfulness, divine protection, and the ultimate hope of salvation.
TRV