δικαιοκρισία

just judgment

Definition

δικαιοκρισία (dikaiokrisia) refers to a judgment that is perfectly just, righteous, and impartial. It describes the character of God's final judgment, which is based on absolute truth and moral rectitude, leaving no room for partiality or error. In its sole New Testament occurrence, Romans 2:5, it specifically denotes the future, definitive judgment of God that will be rendered according to His righteous standard. This concept encompasses both the act of judging and the resulting verdict, both of which are inherently righteous.

Biblical Usage

This word is used only once in the New Testament, in Romans 2:5. The Apostle Paul employs it in a context of warning, describing the 'day of wrath' when God's 'righteous judgment' (δικαιοκρισία) will be revealed. It is used to characterize the nature of God's final eschatological judgment against human stubbornness and unrepentant hearts, emphasizing its absolute justice.

Etymology

A compound noun formed from δίκαιος (dikaios, G1342), meaning 'righteous' or 'just,' and κρίσις (krisis, G2920), meaning 'judgment,' 'decision,' or 'trial.' The combination literally means 'righteous judgment' or 'just judging,' where the first element (δίκαιος) describes the quality of the second element (κρίσις). It is a Hellenistic Greek formation that succinctly captures a core attribute of divine action.

Semantic Range

This word is theologically significant as it defines the essential character of God's final judgment. It assures believers that God's verdicts are never arbitrary, capricious, or unfair but are founded on His perfect righteousness. Understanding this term enriches the reading of Romans 2 by highlighting that the coming 'day of wrath' is not an outburst of irrational anger but the necessary and just administration of divine justice against sin. It connects directly to doctrines of God's justice, eschatology, and human accountability.

In the Greco-Roman world, the ideal of impartial justice was a common philosophical and legal concept, though human courts often fell short. Paul's use of this term would resonate with audiences familiar with this ideal, while simultaneously elevating it to describe a divine, perfect, and inescapable reality. It contrasts human flawed judgment with God's infallible standard.

κρίσις (krisis, G2920) — The more general term for judgment, decision, or trial, without the inherent emphasis on righteousness. κρίμα (krima, G2917) — Often refers to the result or sentence of a judgment, a condemnatory decree. δικαίωμα (dikaiōma, G1345) — Can mean a righteous ordinance, regulation, or act of justice, focusing more on the righteous requirement or deed itself.

Word Details

Scripture References