Definition and Context
Comparative righteousness refers to the human tendency to evaluate one's own moral and ethical standing by comparing oneself to others, rather than by the absolute standards set by God. This concept is often explored in the context of biblical teachings on humility, judgment, and the nature of true righteousness.

Biblical Foundations
The Bible consistently emphasizes that true righteousness is not determined by human standards or comparisons but by adherence to God's commandments and faith in Him. Isaiah 64:6 states, "All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags; we all shrivel up like a leaf, and like the wind, our sins sweep us away." This verse underscores the inadequacy of human righteousness when measured against God's holiness.

Teachings of Jesus
Jesus addressed the issue of comparative righteousness in several of His teachings. In the Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector (Luke 18:9-14), Jesus illustrates the futility of self-righteousness. The Pharisee, confident in his own righteousness, compares himself to others, saying, "God, I thank You that I am not like other men—swindlers, evildoers, adulterers—or even like this tax collector." In contrast, the tax collector humbly acknowledges his sinfulness, praying, "God, have mercy on me, a sinner." Jesus concludes that the tax collector, not the Pharisee, went home justified before God, highlighting that humility and repentance are valued over self-comparison.

Pauline Epistles
The Apostle Paul also addresses comparative righteousness, particularly in his letters to the Romans and Corinthians. In Romans 3:23 , Paul writes, "for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God," emphasizing that no one can claim righteousness based on their own merit. In 2 Corinthians 10:12 , Paul warns against the folly of self-comparison: "We do not dare to classify or compare ourselves with some who commend themselves. When they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they are not wise."

Old Testament Insights
The Old Testament provides further insights into the dangers of comparative righteousness. In the book of Job, Job's friends attempt to compare his suffering to their understanding of righteousness, suggesting that his misfortunes are a result of sin. However, God rebukes them for their misguided judgments (Job 42:7-9), illustrating that human understanding of righteousness is limited and often flawed.

Practical Implications
The concept of comparative righteousness has practical implications for believers. It calls for a focus on personal spiritual growth and a reliance on God's grace rather than on self-assessment against others. James 4:6 reminds believers, "But He gives us more grace. This is why it says: 'God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.'" This verse encourages humility and dependence on God's grace as the foundation of true righteousness.

Conclusion
While the Bible acknowledges the human tendency to compare oneself to others, it consistently points to God's standards as the true measure of righteousness. Believers are encouraged to seek humility, repentance, and faith in God's grace, recognizing that all have sinned and are in need of His mercy.