Justice and righteousness are terms frequently used in the Bible. However, their precise meaning can sometimes be difficult to understand. In this post, we'll explore the biblical teachings on justice and righteousness. We'll see how the Bible defines these terms and how it encourages us to act justly and fairly towards others.

Justice is often defined as giving everyone their due. However, in the Bible, justice is much more than that. In the Old Testament, justice is often associated with goodness and righteousness, as well as compassion for the oppressed. Justice is also linked to the notion of divine right. In the New Testament, Jesus teaches that justice must be combined with mercy and forgiveness. Thus, justice must be balanced and just.

Righteousness, on the other hand, concerns our moral and ethical behavior. Righteousness means honesty, integrity and respect for others. In the Bible, righteousness is closely linked to holiness. Even if we are imperfect, we are called to strive to act with honesty and justice in all our interactions with others.

The Bible stresses the importance of acting justly and fairly towards others. In Amos 5:24, we read, "Let justice spring up like water, and righteousness like a stream that never runs dry!" Justice is clearly important to God. In the New Testament, Jesus teaches that we are to love our neighbor as ourselves and treat others as we would like to be treated. This means being just and righteous.

In the example of the parable of the Good Samaritan, Jesus shows us what it really means to be just and fair to others. A man has been mugged, robbed and left for dead on the road. Two people pass him by, ignoring him, but a Samaritan stops to help. The Samaritan acts with compassion towards a stranger in distress. - This is righteousness and justice according to the Bible.

In conclusion, justice and righteousness are central concepts in the Bible. To be just means to be honest and respectful towards others, while justice refers to compassion towards the oppressed and the idea of divine right.

We are called to act justly and fairly towards others, to love our neighbor as ourselves and to treat others as we would like to be treated. May we always strive for justice and righteousness in all our interactions with others.

Shalom!