Topical Encyclopedia
Definition and Usage:The term "fairly" is often understood to mean justly, equitably, or impartially. In a biblical context, it refers to the manner in which individuals are called to act with fairness and justice, reflecting God's own nature and commands. The concept of fairness is deeply rooted in the biblical narrative, emphasizing the importance of treating others with righteousness and integrity.
Biblical References and Themes:1.
Justice and Righteousness: The Bible frequently associates fairness with justice and righteousness. In
Micah 6:8 , it is written, "He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?" This verse underscores the expectation that God's people will act fairly, embodying justice in their interactions with others.
2.
God's Fairness: God's character is depicted as inherently fair and just.
Deuteronomy 32:4 states, "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 passage highlights that God's actions are always fair, serving as a model for human behavior.
3.
Fair Treatment of Others: The Bible instructs believers to treat others fairly, reflecting God's justice in their relationships. In
Leviticus 19:15 , it is commanded, "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 directive emphasizes the importance of impartiality and fairness in judgment.
4.
Fairness in Leadership: Leaders are particularly called to exercise fairness in their governance.
Proverbs 29:14 states, "A king who judges the poor with fairness—his throne will be established forever." This proverb suggests that fair leadership is foundational to enduring authority and stability.
5.
Fairness in Commerce: The Bible also addresses fairness in economic transactions.
Proverbs 11:1 declares, "Dishonest scales are an abomination to the LORD, but an accurate weight is His delight." This verse highlights the importance of honesty and fairness in business dealings, reflecting God's standards.
6.
Fairness in Speech: Fairness extends to the way individuals communicate.
Colossians 4:6 advises, "Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone." This instruction encourages believers to speak fairly and graciously, promoting understanding and respect.
Theological Implications:The call to act fairly is a reflection of God's own nature and His desire for His people to mirror His justice and righteousness. Fairness is not merely a social or ethical obligation but a spiritual mandate that aligns with the character of God. By acting fairly, believers demonstrate their commitment to living according to God's will and advancing His kingdom on earth.
Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary
1. (
adv.) In a fair manner; clearly; openly; plainly; fully; distinctly; frankly.
2. (adv.) Favorably; auspiciously; commodiously; as, a town fairly situated for foreign trade.
3. (adv.) Honestly; properly.
4. (adv.) Softly; quietly; gently.
Strong's Hebrew
6664. tsedeq -- rightness, righteousness... Word Origin from an unused word Definition rightness, righteousness NASB Word Usage
accurate (1),
fairly (1), just (10), just cause (1), justice (3), righteous
...Library
JudgeFairly, and You are Deserving of Censure in This...
... Book V. 45 Judgefairly, and you are deserving of censure in this? Judge
fairly, and you are deserving of censure in this, [4554...
Entreaty to beFairly Judged.
... Chapter XXXVII."Entreaty to BeFairly Judged. And now do you, who are entirely
in everything, by nature and by education, upright...
Preface.
... It has been my object to state fully andfairly the benefits which attend this mode
of address in the pulpit, and at the same time to guard against the dangers...
Christianity
... We are no longer to spend eloquence, prayer and time on revivals, and now and then,
here and there, get an individual to livefairly right in spite of...
On Refuges of Lies.
... But it must befairly applied.... In any such case, the efficacy of the medicine is
not disproved; you only prove that you have not used itfairly and honestly....
Bible Study for Boys
... A recent writer has said, "We have come to afairly definite understanding that
we must take the boy as he is; we must inquire into his needs; we must consider...
The Edict of Banishment, 1729-1736.
... As this document was signed by all the Herrnhut Brethren, they must have agreed
to its statements; but, on the other hand, it isfairly certain that it was...
A Heart-Breaking Verse.
... the greatest; the greatest man of the race; His philosophy, His moral standards
are the ideals; wonderful life; great example." Theyfairly exhaust the...
To Gregory xi
... the first which Catherine wrote him. That she had had relations with him
earlier seemsfairly certain. As early as 1372 we find...
On Corrupting the Word of God
... When they really believe he has no end in speaking, but what hefairly carries in
view, and that he is willing that they should see all the steps he takes for...
Thesaurus
Fairly (8 Occurrences)... 2. (adv.) Favorably; auspiciously; commodiously; as, a town
fairly situated for
foreign trade. 3. (adv.) Honestly; properly.
...Fairly (8 Occurrences).
...Zoology
... are common. The roe deer wasfairly common in Carmel and Southern Lebanon
20 years ago, but is now nearly or quita extinct. The...
Zebul (5 Occurrences)
... of Abimelech. This verse is a little difficult, but if we read "served"
for "serve ye," it becomesfairly clear in meaning. With...
Kiriath-jearim (17 Occurrences)
... far removed from the other cities of the Gibeonites-Gibeon, Chephirah and
Beeroth-but those places, which are all identified, are themselvesfairly widely...
Kiriathjearim
... far removed from the other cities of the Gibeonites-Gibeon, Chephirah and
Beeroth-but those places, which are all identified, are themselvesfairly widely...
Confusion (71 Occurrences)
... 3. Homogeneity: By using the repeated "going down" of verses 5, 7 as a clue, the
section can be resolvedfairly easily into two narratives, eg (1) The men...
Gospels
... More recent criticism does not allow so early an appearance for those gospels, though
afairly early date is still postulated for the Gospel of the Hebrews....
Tongues (67 Occurrences)
... 3. Homogeneity: By using the repeated "going down" of verses 5, 7 as a clue, the
section can be resolvedfairly easily into two narratives, eg (1) The men...
Taxing (3 Occurrences)
... viewpoint of experience. In either case, the passage gives us afairly
exhaustive list of royal prerogatives. Aside from various...
Resources
Why is life not fair? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does God want me to do? | GotQuestions.orgWhat should we learn from the golden calf incident in Exodus 32? | GotQuestions.orgFairly: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance •
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