from צָדַק; the right (natural, moral or legal); also (abstractly) equity or (figuratively) prosperity; [idiom] even, ([idiom] that which is altogether) just(-ice), (un-)right(-eous) (cause, -ly, -ness).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tsedeq**, represented by `{{H6664}}`, defines that which is **right**, **just**, and equitable. It appears **116 times** across **109 unique verses** in the Bible, indicating its significance. The term encompasses a broad spectrum of meaning, from moral and legal rightness to equity and even prosperity.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{H6664}}` describes the very nature of God, who upholds his people with "the right hand of my **righteousness**" [[Isaiah 41:10]]. It is the foundation of His divine government, as "**Justice** and judgment are the habitation of thy throne" [[Psalms 89:14]]. As a human virtue, people are commanded to "seek **righteousness**" [[Zephaniah 2:3]] and to "judge **righteously**" [[Proverbs 31:9]]. The word is also used to describe a future hope, where God will "rain **righteousness**" upon His people [[Hosea 10:12]] and a king will "reign in **righteousness**" [[Isaiah 32:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help define the scope of justice and moral order:
* `{{H4941}}` **mishpâṭ** (judgment): This term for a verdict or decree is frequently paired with `{{H6664}}` to express the comprehensive nature of God's justice and the standard for human rule [[Psalms 89:14]].
* `{{H2617}}` **chêçêd** (lovingkindness): Often appearing alongside `{{H6664}}`, this word highlights the relational aspect of God's character, blending justice with covenantal kindness [[Hosea 2:19]].
* `{{H571}}` **ʼemeth** (truth): Another fundamental divine attribute, it is often associated with righteousness to describe the integrity of God's character and His actions [[Psalms 85:10]].
* `{{H7965}}` **shâlôwm** (peace): Presented as the companion and outcome of righteousness, where the two are seen kissing each other in a vision of restored order [[Psalms 85:10]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{H6664}}` is profound, connecting God's nature to human responsibility and eschatological hope.
* **Divine Standard:** Righteousness is not an abstract concept but is rooted in the character of God Himself. It is the very "habitation of his throne" [[Psalms 97:2]], establishing the foundation for all divine activity.
* **Ethical Imperative:** Humanity is called to reflect this divine standard. The law commands judging "in **righteousness**" [[Leviticus 19:15]], and the prophets urge the people to "seek **righteousness**" [[Zephaniah 2:3]] as a core tenet of their covenant relationship with God.
* **Eschatological Hope:** Scripture points to a future where righteousness will be fully realized. This includes the promise of "everlasting **righteousness**" [[Daniel 9:24]] and a time when Zion's **righteousness** will "go forth as brightness" [[Isaiah 62:1]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6664}}` **tsedeq** is a cornerstone of biblical ethics and theology. It is far more than a legal term, representing the moral perfection of God's character and the standard to which humanity is called. It functions as both a present command for just living and a future promise of divine restoration. From the foundation of God's throne [[Psalms 89:14]] to the righteous cause of His servants [[Psalms 35:27]], **tsedeq** defines the ultimate rightness that flows from God and is to be reflected in His creation.
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