### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **tsᵉdâqâh**, represented by `{{H6666}}`, is a foundational term for **rightness** in its various forms. It describes rightness abstractly, subjectively as rectitude, objectively as justice, morally as virtue, and figuratively as prosperity. It appears **157 times** across **150 unique verses**, signifying its central role in scripture in defining moral and divine standards.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{H6666}}` is central to the concept of faith, as when Abraham believed the LORD, it was counted to him for **righteousness** [[Genesis 15:6]]. The term is also fundamental to just governance and messianic hope; the throne of David is to be established with judgment and **justice** [[Isaiah 9:7]], a theme echoed in the promise of a righteous Branch who will execute judgment and **justice** in the earth [[Jeremiah 23:5]]. As a divine attribute, God's **righteousness** is eternal [[Isaiah 51:6]], and He clothes His people with a "robe of **righteousness**" [[Isaiah 61:10]]. In contrast, human attempts at righteousness are described on their own as "filthy rags" [[Isaiah 64:6]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words expand upon the concept of righteousness:
* `{{H6662}}` **tsaddîyq** (just, lawful, righteous (man)): This word is the adjectival form describing a person who embodies righteousness. It is used in parallel to show that the **righteousness** of a person is what defines them as **righteous** [[Ezekiel 18:20]].
* `{{H6664}}` **tsedeq** (the right, equity, justice): This masculine noun from the same root often conveys the standard of divine rightness. God is said to "rain **righteousness**" `{{H6664}}` on those who sow in **righteousness** `{{H6666}}` [[Hosea 10:12]].
* `{{H4941}}` **mishpâṭ** (judgment, justice, ordinance): This word for judgment is frequently paired with `{{H6666}}` to describe the foundation of a just society and God's rule. God commands His people "to do **justice** and **judgment**" [[Genesis 18:19]], an action more acceptable to Him than sacrifice [[Proverbs 21:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H6666}}` is immense, defining God's character and humanity's moral calling.
* **Divine Standard and Character:** Righteousness is an attribute of God Himself. He exercises **righteousness** in the earth [[Jeremiah 9:24]] and loves it [[Psalms 33:5]]. His **righteousness** is eternal and unshakeable [[Isaiah 51:6]], and it is the standard by which He judges [[Isaiah 28:17]].
* **A Gift from God:** The concept of righteousness being granted by God begins with Abraham, whose belief was counted to him for **righteousness** [[Genesis 15:6]]. It is a gift from God, who clothes His people in a "robe of **righteousness**" [[Isaiah 61:10]] and declares that their **righteousness** is from Him [[Isaiah 54:17]].
* **Human Responsibility and Action:** Humanity is called to actively pursue and perform righteousness. Believers are to "sow to yourselves in **righteousness**" [[Hosea 10:12]] and follow after it to find life [[Proverbs 21:21]]. The result of this action is peace, quietness, and assurance [[Isaiah 32:17]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H6666}}` is a rich theological term that defines both a core attribute of God and the moral standard for humanity. It encompasses personal virtue, social justice, and divine deliverance. From a gift imputed by faith to an active pursuit of justice and judgment, **tsᵉdâqâh** forms a cornerstone of biblical ethics and the believer's relationship with a righteous God.
TRV