Greek · Strong's G1342
δίκαιος
díkaios (DIK-ah-yos)
adjective
Dikaios describes a person, thing, or action that is in conformity with what is right, particularly in a legal or ethical sense.
Dikaios is a broad term, referring to moral and ethical uprightness. It can describe someone who is innocent or blameless, as in the case of Pilate describing Jesus as a "just person." It also carries the idea of adhering to divine law or principles, often translated as "righteous" when referring to God or those who follow God's will. The term emphasizes impartiality and fairness, especially in judgment. For example, God's judgments are described as just and true. It can also be applied to actions or behaviors that are considered morally correct and in line with societal or divine standards. While encompassing legal equity, dikaios extends beyond mere legality to reflect a deeper moral integrity. In theological contexts, it frequently describes the character of God as perfectly just and righteous, and by extension, believers who have been made right with God through faith. However, the New Testament also recognizes that human righteousness is often imperfect, and true righteousness ultimately comes from God. Thus, believers are called to live righteous lives, mirroring God's character and fulfilling His will, even though no human is perfectly righteous on their own.
Common English renderings
- just
- righteous
- right
- innocent
Key verses
"So when Pilate saw that he prevailed nothing, but rather that a tumult was arising, he took water, and washed his hands before the multitude, saying, I am innocent of the blood of this righteous man; see ye to it."
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"My little children, these things write I unto you that ye may not sin. And if any man sin, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous:"
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"for true and righteous are his judgments; for he hath judged the great harlot, her that corrupted the earth with her fornication, and he hath avenged the blood of his servants at her hand."
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"I can of myself do nothing: as I hear, I judge: and my judgment is righteous; because I seek not mine own will, but the will of him that sent me."
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"And these shall go away into eternal punishment: but the righteous into eternal life."
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"as it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one;"
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Related words