Topical Encyclopedia Fairness, as a concept, is deeply rooted in the biblical understanding of justice, righteousness, and impartiality. It is the quality of making judgments that are free from discrimination, favoritism, or bias, and is closely associated with the character of God as revealed in the Scriptures.Biblical Foundation The Bible presents God as the ultimate standard of fairness. In Deuteronomy 32:4, it is declared, "He is the Rock, His work is perfect; all His ways are just. A God of faithfulness without injustice, righteous and upright is He." This verse underscores the perfection and justice inherent in God's nature, serving as a model for human conduct. Fairness in Human Relationships The call for fairness is evident in the biblical exhortations to treat others with equity and justice. Leviticus 19:15 instructs, "You must not pervert justice; you must not show partiality to the poor or favoritism to the rich; you are to judge your neighbor fairly." This command highlights the importance of impartiality in judgment, ensuring that all individuals are treated with equal respect and dignity. Proverbs 21:3 further emphasizes the value of fairness, stating, "To do righteousness and justice is more desirable to the LORD than sacrifice." This verse suggests that God prioritizes ethical behavior and fairness over ritualistic practices, indicating the weightiness of just actions in His eyes. Fairness in Leadership and Governance The Bible also addresses fairness in the context of leadership and governance. Leaders are called to exercise their authority with justice and equity. In 2 Samuel 23:3, David reflects on the ideal ruler: "The God of Israel spoke; the Rock of Israel said to me, 'He who rules over men must be just, ruling in the fear of God.'" This passage highlights the expectation that leaders should govern with fairness, guided by a reverence for God. Fairness in Economic Practices Economic fairness is another significant theme in the Scriptures. The Bible condemns dishonest practices and exploitation. Proverbs 11:1 states, "Dishonest scales are an abomination to the LORD, but an accurate weight is His delight." This proverb underscores the importance of honesty and fairness in business dealings, reflecting God's desire for integrity in economic transactions. Fairness and Mercy While fairness involves justice and impartiality, it is also balanced by mercy. James 2:13 reminds believers, "For judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment." This verse suggests that fairness, in the biblical sense, is not devoid of compassion and mercy, reflecting the character of God who is both just and merciful. The Example of Jesus Christ Jesus Christ exemplifies fairness in His earthly ministry. He treated all individuals with dignity and respect, regardless of their social status or background. In John 7:24, Jesus instructs, "Stop judging by outward appearances, and start judging justly." His life and teachings consistently demonstrated fairness, challenging societal norms and advocating for the marginalized and oppressed. Conclusion The biblical concept of fairness is multifaceted, encompassing justice, impartiality, and mercy. It is a reflection of God's character and a standard for human conduct, calling believers to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with their God (Micah 6:8). Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) The state of being fair, or free form spots or stains, as of the skin; honesty, as of dealing; candor, as of an argument, etc.Greek 1932. epieikeia -- fairness, gentleness ... fairness, gentleness. Part of Speech: Noun, Feminine Transliteration: epieikeia Phonetic Spelling: (ep-ee-i'-ki-ah) Short Definition: considerateness ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1932.htm - 7k 2471. isotes -- equality Strong's Hebrew 8236. Shiphrah -- "fairness," a Hebrew midwife... 8235, 8236. Shiphrah. 8237 . "fairness," a Hebrew midwife. Transliteration: Shiphrah Phonetic Spelling: (shif-raw') Short Definition: Shiphrah. ... /hebrew/8236.htm - 6k 8235. shiphrah -- fairness, clearness (of sky) 4334. mishor -- a level place, uprightness Library Of Fairness of Mind: Vanity of the World: Love of God: and Union ... How Perfect Love is Gotten by Cleanness and Love: and of Imperfect ... Of Divers Friendships of Good and Ill, and if they Can be Loosed ... That God's Love is to be Mingled with Ilk Time and Deed nor Fails ... You Observe How He Treats Ambrose. First, He Calls Him a Crow and ... First Part of the Book. The Gratuity of Actual Grace Of the Despising of the World The Fire of Love That a True Lover Only Loves his Beloved: and of Double Ravishings ... Thesaurus Fairness (3 Occurrences)... dealing; candor, as of an argument, etc. Multi-Version Concordance Fairness (3 Occurrences). Colossians 4:1 Masters, give to your ... /f/fairness.htm - 7k Equity (19 Occurrences) Fairs (6 Occurrences) Fairly (8 Occurrences) Unfair (1 Occurrence) Jephthah (26 Occurrences) Gentleness (17 Occurrences) Garnish (1 Occurrence) Fair (147 Occurrences) Resources Is God fair? | GotQuestions.orgWhy is life not fair? | GotQuestions.org Is The Divine Comedy / Dante's Inferno a biblically accurate description of Heaven and Hell? | GotQuestions.org Fairness: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Fairness (3 Occurrences)Colossians 4:1 Proverbs 29:14 Isaiah 11:4 Subtopics Related Terms |