Righteousness

In the Bible, righteousness is a multifaceted concept that encompasses moral integrity, ethical behavior, and a right relationship with God. The Hebrew word for righteousness, "tzedakah," often implies not just personal morality but also social justice and the fulfillment of obligations toward others (Job 29:14; Proverbs 21:3). In the New Testament, the Greek word "dikaiosynē" emphasizes being in right standing before God, which is central to the teachings of Jesus and the apostles (Matthew 5:6; Romans 3:22). Righteousness is often linked with faith; for instance, Romans 1:17 states, "The righteous will live by faith," indicating that a person's right standing with God is not earned through works but is a gift received through faith in Christ.Moreover, righteousness is a key attribute of God's character, as seen in Psalm 11:7, which affirms that "the Lord is righteous; he loves justice." This divine righteousness sets a standard for human behavior and emphasizes the importance of aligning one’s life with God’s will. Ultimately, the biblical notion of righteousness calls for both personal holiness and social responsibility, urging believers to act justly and love mercy as they walk humbly with God (Micah 6:8).

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