The meaning of “δικαιόω”
Understanding dikaióō reveals the original theological depth often simplified in translation.
free, justify(-ier), be righteous. - to render (i.e. show or regard as) just or innocent
δικαιόω
free, justify(-ier), be righteous. - to render (i.e. show or regard as) just or innocent
Occurrences in the Bible
| Reference | Text | |
|---|---|---|
| Matthew 12:37 | “For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.” Word: δικαιόω (dikaióō) | |
| Acts 13:39 | “And by him all that believe are justified from all things, from which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses.” Word: δικαιόω (dikaióō) | |
| 1 Corinthians 6:11 | “And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.” Word: δικαιόω (dikaióō) | |
| 1 Timothy 3:16 | “And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory. ” Word: δικαιόω (dikaióō) | |
| James 2:24 | “Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.” Word: δικαιόω (dikaióō) |
Theological Word Study: Justify
Old Testament Usage
Meaning: To be righteous, declare righteous
The Hebrew tsadaq (צָדַק) means to be righteous or to declare righteous—a legal verdict of innocence. Abraham 'believed in the LORD; and he counted it to him for righteousness' (Genesis 15:6).
New Testament Usage
Meaning: To justify, declare righteous
The Greek dikaioo (δικαιόω) means to declare righteous—a forensic term for acquittal. Believers are 'justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus' (Romans 3:24).