righteousness

From Middle English rightwisnes, from Old English rihtwīsnes (“justice”).

• IPA^(key): /ˈɹaɪt͡ʃəsnəs/

• Audio (US)

  (file)

righteousness (countable and uncountable, plural righteousnesses)

1. (uncountable) The quality or state of being righteous.
2. (uncountable, theology) Holiness; conformity of life to the divine law.
   • 1922, Ben Travers, chapter 4, in A Cuckoo in the Nest:

     By some paradoxical evolution rancour and intolerance have been established in the vanguard of primitive Christianity. Mrs. Spoker, in common with many of the stricter disciples of righteousness, was as inclement in demeanour as she was cadaverous in aspect.

   Synonyms: rectitude, uprightness, holiness, godliness, equity, justice, rightfulness, integrity, honesty, faithfulness

3. (countable) A righteous act, or righteous quality.
   • Isaiah lxiv. 6.

     All our righteousnesses are as filthy rags.

4. The act or conduct of one who is righteous.
   • Psalms cvi. 3.

     Blessed are they that keep judgment, and he that doeth rightness at all times.

5. (theology) The state of being right with God; justification; the work of Christ, which is the ground justification.
   • 1594-7, Richard Hooker, Of the Lawes of Ecclesiastical Politie, A Discourse, Section 21

     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.

   • 1646-7, Westminster Shorter Catechism, Q.33

     Only for the righteousness of Christ imputed to us, and received by faith alone.