The meaning of “δικαιοσύνη”
Understanding dikaiosýnē reveals the original theological depth often simplified in translation.
righteousness. - equity (of character or act) - specially (Christian) justification
δικαιοσύνη
righteousness. - equity (of character or act) - specially (Christian) justification
Occurrences in the Bible
| Reference | Text | |
|---|---|---|
| Matthew 5:20 | “For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.” Word: δικαιοσύνη (dikaiosýnē) | |
| Acts 17:31 | “Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead.” Word: δικαιοσύνη (dikaiosýnē) | |
| 2 Corinthians 6:14 | “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?” Word: δικαιοσύνη (dikaiosýnē) | |
| Philippians 3:6 | “Concerning zeal, persecuting the church; touching the righteousness which is in the law, blameless.” Word: δικαιοσύνη (dikaiosýnē) | |
| Titus 3:5 | “Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;” Word: δικαιοσύνη (dikaiosýnē) |
Theological Word Study: Righteous
Old Testament Usage
Meaning: Righteous one
The Hebrew tzaddik (צַדִּיק) describes one who is righteous, just, or lawful—conforming to God's standard. From the root tzedek (צֶדֶק), meaning righteousness or justice.
New Testament Usage
Meaning: Righteous, just
The Greek dikaios (δίκαιος) means righteous or just—conforming to God's standard. Christ's righteousness is imputed to believers through faith (Romans 4:5), making them legally righteous before God.