- Righteousness
- Righteousness Right"eous*ness, n. [AS. rihtw[=i]snes.]
1. The quality or state of being righteous; holiness; purity;
uprightness; rectitude.
[1913 Webster]
Note: Righteousness, as used in Scripture and theology, in which it chiefly occurs, is nearly equivalent to holiness, comprehending holy principles and affections of heart, and conformity of life to the divine law. [1913 Webster]
2. A righteous act, or righteous quality. [1913 Webster]
All our righteousnesses are as filthy rags. --Isa. lxiv. 6. [1913 Webster]
3. The act or conduct of one who is righteous. [1913 Webster]
Blessed are they that keep judgment, and he that doeth righteousness at all times. --Ps. cvi. 3. [1913 Webster]
4. (Theol.) The state of being right with God; justification; the work of Christ, which is the ground of justification. [1913 Webster]
There are two kinds of Christian righteousness: the one without us, which we have by imputation; the other in us, which consisteth of faith, hope, and charity, and other Christian virtues. --Hooker. [1913 Webster]
Only for the righteousness of Christ imputed to us, and received by faith alone. --Westminster Catechism. [1913 Webster]
Syn: Uprightness; holiness; godliness; equity; justice; rightfulness; integrity; honesty; faithfulness. [1913 Webster]
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English. 2000.