The theme of the absence of justice and righteousness is a recurring motif throughout the Bible, often serving as a critique of societal and individual moral failings. This absence is depicted as a deviation from God's intended order and a cause for divine judgment.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, the prophets frequently address the absence of justice and righteousness as a central issue in Israel and Judah. The Hebrew words for justice (מִשְׁפָּט, mishpat) and righteousness (צְדָקָה, tzedakah) are often paired, emphasizing their interconnectedness in maintaining societal harmony and divine favor.

1. Isaiah's Indictment: The prophet Isaiah speaks extensively about the lack of justice and righteousness. In Isaiah 5:7 , he laments, "For the vineyard of the LORD of Hosts is the house of Israel, and the men of Judah are the plant of His delight. He looked for justice, but behold, bloodshed; for righteousness, but behold, a cry of distress." This verse highlights the expectation of justice and righteousness as fruits of a covenant relationship with God, contrasting it with the reality of violence and suffering.

2. Amos' Call for Justice: Amos, a prophet known for his social justice message, condemns the exploitation and oppression prevalent in Israel. In Amos 5:24 , he declares, "But let justice roll on like a river, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream." This imagery underscores the need for continuous and abundant justice and righteousness, contrasting with the prevailing corruption.

3. Micah's Challenge: Micah addresses the leaders of Israel, accusing them of perverting justice. In Micah 3:9-11 , he states, "Hear this, O leaders of the house of Jacob, you rulers of the house of Israel, who despise justice and distort all that is right; who build Zion with bloodshed and Jerusalem with iniquity." The prophet critiques the leaders for their role in fostering injustice and unrighteousness.

New Testament Perspective

In the New Testament, the absence of justice and righteousness is addressed within the context of the Kingdom of God and the teachings of Jesus Christ.

1. Jesus' Teachings: Jesus emphasizes justice and righteousness as core principles of His ministry. In Matthew 23:23 , He rebukes the Pharisees, saying, "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You pay tithes of mint, dill, and cumin, but you have disregarded the weightier matters of the law: justice, mercy, and faithfulness." Here, Jesus criticizes the religious leaders for their focus on minor legalistic details while neglecting fundamental ethical principles.

2. Paul's Exhortation: The Apostle Paul, in his letters, often speaks about living a life characterized by righteousness. In Romans 3:10-12 , he quotes the Psalms, "There is no one righteous, not even one; there is no one who understands, no one who seeks God. All have turned away; they have together become worthless; there is no one who does good, not even one." This passage reflects the universal human condition of unrighteousness apart from God's intervention.

3. James on Practical Righteousness: The Epistle of James emphasizes the practical outworking of faith through righteous actions. In James 2:15-17 , he writes, "Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you tells him, 'Go in peace; stay warm and well fed,' but does not provide for his physical needs, what good is that? So too, faith by itself, if it does not result in action, is dead." James highlights the necessity of active righteousness in addressing the needs of others.

Theological Implications

The absence of justice and righteousness is not merely a social or ethical issue but a theological one, reflecting humanity's estrangement from God. The biblical narrative consistently calls for a return to God's standards of justice and righteousness, which are seen as integral to the restoration of right relationships between individuals, communities, and God Himself. The prophets, Jesus, and the apostles all point towards a future hope where God's justice and righteousness will be fully realized in His Kingdom.