Definify.com
Webster 1913 Edition
Righteousness
Right′eous-ness
,Noun.
[AS.
rihtwīsnes
.] 1.
The quality or state of being righteous; holiness; purity; uprightness; rectitude.
☞ 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.
2.
A righteous act, or righteous quality.
All our
righteousnesses
are as filthy rags. Isa. lxiv. 6.
3.
The act or conduct of one who is righteous.
Blessed are they that keep judgment, and he that doeth
righteousness
at all times. Ps. cvi. 3.
4.
(Theol.)
The state of being right with God; justification; the work of Christ, which is the ground of justification.
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.
Only for the
righteousness
of Christ imputed to us, and received by faith alone. Westminster Catechism.
Syn. – Uprightness; holiness; godliness; equity; justice; rightfulness; integrity; honesty; faithfulness.
Webster 1828 Edition
Righteousness
RIGHTEOUSNESS
,Noun.
1.
Purity of heart and rectitude of life; conformity of heart and life to the divine law. Righteousness, as used in Scripture and theology, in which it is chiefly used, is nearly equivalent to holiness, comprehending holy principles and affections of heart, and conformity of life to the divine law. It includes all we call justice, honesty and virtue, with holy affections; in short, it is true religion.2.
Applied to God, the perfection or holiness of his nature; exact rectitude; faithfulness.3.
The active and passive obedience of Christ, by which the law of God is fulfilled. Daniel 9.4.
Justice; equity between man and man. Luke 1.5.
The cause of our justification.The Lord our righteousness. Jer. 23.