What the Bible Means by ”Justice”

What the Bible Means by ”Justice”

In the news and on socials, we hear a lot about justice. Our friends, family members, and culture are full of ideas about how to define it and fight for it. It can also be a rather divisive topic, especially in political debates or between people groups. And sometimes, we allow our culture to influence how we understand the Bible’s use of an important concept like this. But what if we pause for a moment to consider what the Bible means when it uses the word “justice,” especially in the Old Testament? And what if we ask God for an open mind to both understand and promote the kind of justice closest to his heart?  

We hear the word “justice” often. Our friends, family, and culture are full of ideas about how to define and fight for it. It can even be divisive, especially in politics. And sometimes, we let culture influence how we understand the Bible’s use of important concepts like this. Let’s consider what “justice” means in the Bible, especially the Old Testament. And, ask God for an open mind to both understand and promote the justice closest to his heart. 

 

The Hebrew word “justice” is mišpāṭ and can also be interpreted as judgment, case, or claim. 

 

God is extra concerned with injustice toward the poor and needy, orphans, widows, and strangers or immigrants. And he’s not just concerned, he expects his people to also fight for mišpāt and not cause injustice. 

 

“...He is the great God… who shows no partiality and cannot be bribed. He ensures that orphans and widows receive justice. He shows love to the foreigners living among you and gives them food and clothing. So you, too, must show love to foreigners...” (Deuteronomy 10:17-19).