justice
this is a priority value which is fundamental to both Testaments of the Bible, as also to subsequent Christian tradition. ‘Mishpat’ (the Hebrew word translated as justice) is expressly promoted in the Torah/first five books of the Old Testament, and it is equally central to the writings of the Prophets and of Wisdom. It is by this criterion that Israel itself is found wanting by God. As in the New Testament, so throughout the history of the church, there has been deference both to justice as known in Israel and in the Roman and later secular world. In so far as religious law, national/imperial law, or international law are frameworks for interpreting and applying God’s justice in the world, they have all been given due attention. From time to time however Christians have been mindful of the other priority values of love and forgiveness/mercy. They have not been seen as obliterating the claims of law, or challenging the language of justice. However, whilst underwriting them, they have often made for qualifications and transformations.
See also:
forgiveness, love, prophets