ἄδικος

unjust, unrighteous

Definition

The adjective ἄδικος fundamentally describes someone or something that is 'unjust' or 'unrighteous,' meaning it violates what is right, fair, or in accordance with God's law. It can characterize people who act wickedly (Luke 18:11), legal judgments that are unfair (1 Corinthians 6:1), or even abstract concepts, as when Paul rhetorically asks if God's wrath demonstrates Him to be 'unjust' (Romans 3:5). In its broadest sense, it stands in direct opposition to God's righteous character and the standard of justice established in His covenant.

Biblical Usage

ἄδικος is used 11 times across Gospels, Acts, and Epistles, often in ethical or judicial contexts. In the Gospels, Jesus uses it to describe those who do not act rightly before God (Matthew 5:45, Luke 16:10-11) and the Pharisee's contempt for others (Luke 18:11). Paul employs it in theological argument (Romans 3:5) and to label those who will not inherit God's kingdom (1 Corinthians 6:9). It also appears in discussions of future resurrection (Acts 24:15) and in advising believers to avoid secular courts (1 Corinthians 6:1).

Etymology

Derived from the alpha-privative ἀ- (meaning 'not' or 'without') and the root *dik-*, which relates to justice, right, or custom. It is the direct antonym of δίκαιος (dikaios, G1342, 'righteous, just'). The root is seen in words like δικαιοσύνη (dikaiosynē, 'righteousness') and κρίσις (krisis, 'judgment'), placing ἄδικos squarely in the semantic field of justice and moral order.

Semantic Range

This word is crucial for understanding the biblical contrast between human sinfulness and God's perfect righteousness. It underscores the universal human condition of being 'unrighteous' and in need of justification. In passages like 1 Corinthians 6:9, it helps define those excluded from the kingdom, highlighting the transformative power of the gospel. Understanding ἄδικος enriches reading by clarifying the serious moral and relational breach that sin represents, setting the stage for the gospel's offer of righteousness in Christ.

In the Greco-Roman world, 'justice' (dikē) was a foundational civic and philosophical virtue. To be labeled ἄδικος was a severe social and moral condemnation, implying one was unfit for orderly society. Biblically, this cultural understanding is infused with a Hebrew concept of covenant righteousness, where being 'unjust' means violating God's law and the terms of relationship with Him, not merely social norms.

ἀνομία (anomia, G458) — emphasizes 'lawlessness' or transgression of specific commands. πονηρός (ponēros, G4190) — focuses on active evil or malicious intent. ἁμαρτωλός (hamartōlos, G268) — highlights 'sinner,' one who misses the mark or falls short.

Word Details

Scripture References