righteousness

Definition

The quality or state of being righteous.

Etymology

From earlier rightwiseness, from Middle English rightwisnes, from Old English rihtwīsnes (“justice”), equivalent to righteous + -ness.

Example Sentences

• "But in these days of fanaticism, that harsh and violent spirit is abroad, when men clothe their own angry passions in the garb of righteousness, and call persecution vindicating the honour of God."
• "21 ¶ I hate, I despise your feast dayes, and I will not smell in your solemne assemblies. 22 Though ye offer me burnt offerings, and your meat offerings, I will not accept them: neither will I regard the peace offerings of your fat beasts. 23 Take thou away from mee the noise of thy songs: for I will not heare the melodie of thy violes. 24 But let iudgement run downe as waters, and righteousnesse as a mightie streame."
• "By some paradoxical evolution rancour and intolerance have been established in the vanguard of primitive Christianity. Mrs. Spoker, in common with many of the stricter disciples of righteousness, was as inclement in demeanour as she was cadaverous in aspect."