The term "requiteth" is an archaic form of the verb "requite," which means to repay, reward, or return in kind. In the context of the Bible, it often refers to the divine principle of justice and recompense, where God or individuals return actions in accordance with what has been done, whether good or evil.

Biblical Usage and Context

1. Divine Justice and Retribution: The concept of requiting is deeply embedded in the biblical understanding of God's justice. God is portrayed as the ultimate judge who requites individuals according to their deeds. This is evident in passages that emphasize God's righteous judgment and His ability to repay both the righteous and the wicked.

· Deuteronomy 32:35 : "Vengeance is Mine; I will repay. In due time their foot will slip; for their day of disaster is near, and their doom is coming quickly."

This verse underscores the belief that God will ultimately requite those who do evil, affirming His role as the just judge who will repay in His own time.

2. Human Responsibility and Reciprocity: The principle of requiting is not limited to divine action but extends to human relationships. The Bible encourages individuals to act justly and to repay kindness with kindness, as well as to address wrongdoing appropriately.

· Proverbs 20:22 : "Do not say, 'I will avenge this evil!' Wait on the LORD, and He will deliver you."

Here, the emphasis is on trusting God to requite evil rather than taking personal vengeance, highlighting the importance of leaving justice in God's hands.

3. Requiting Good for Good: The Bible also speaks to the positive aspect of requiting, where good deeds are rewarded. This is seen in the encouragement to repay kindness and generosity.

· Ruth 2:12 : "May the LORD repay your work, and may you receive a rich reward from the LORD, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have taken refuge."

This blessing upon Ruth reflects the hope that God will requite her faithfulness and kindness with His own blessings and protection.

4. Warnings Against Unjust Requital: Scripture warns against unjustly requiting evil for good, which is seen as a grave moral failing.

· Psalm 35:12 : "They repay me evil for good, to the bereavement of my soul."

This lament by David highlights the pain and injustice of being requited with evil despite having done good, a situation that calls for divine intervention and justice.

Theological Implications

The concept of requiteth in the Bible underscores the moral order established by God, where actions have consequences, and justice is ultimately served. It reflects the biblical worldview that God is sovereign and just, ensuring that righteousness is rewarded and wickedness is punished. This principle encourages believers to live righteously, trust in God's justice, and practice forgiveness and mercy, knowing that God will ultimately requite all deeds according to His perfect will.

Concordance

Requiteth (1 Occurrence)

Psalms 31:23
Love Jehovah, all ye his saints. Jehovah preserveth the faithful, and plentifully requiteth the proud doer.
(DBY)

Thesaurus

Requiteth (1 Occurrence)
... Multi-Version Concordance Requiteth (1 Occurrence). ... Jehovah preserveth the
faithful, and plentifully requiteth the proud doer. (DBY). ...
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Requiting (3 Occurrences)

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Requites (4 Occurrences)

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Resources

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus