31 Flavors of Wisdom – Flavor #18: Righteousness
Flavor #18: Righteousness (Saddiyq; Sedeq)
(Complete list and links to the 31 Flavors of Wisdom)
Meaning, essence, and significance: Righteousness, rooted in the Hebrew terms Saddiyq and Sedeq, embodies the qualities of justice (#17), integrity (#14), honesty and moral behavior. Righteousness signifies unwavering adherence to ethical principles and fairness, by aspiring to reflect God’s positive character in one’s behavior as the ultimate standard of morality. Here, people who are righteous demonstrate honesty, a respect for the law(ful behavior), and the equitable treatment of others, as they purposefully work to create health, harmony, fairness and peace within their family and in the communities in which they interact.
Practical Appearance and Nutritional Value: In daily life, righteousness manifests through consistent, ethical, and prosocial behavior, such as truthfulness, honoring commitments, and advocating for justice according to the circumstances in which one finds oneself. Righteousness involves treating others with fairness and respect, leading to a clear conscience from doing the next right thing and ultimately, to the restoration of trustworthy relationships. The “nutritional value” of righteousness lies in its contribution to a just and compassionate society where respect is mutual, needs are fulfilled and practical outcomes are marked by wise, collaborative behavior evinced with peace.
Who deserves some of this seasoning? “My neighbors in the communities I live and interact in, be they down the street or half-way across the globe. When I observe an unjust crime against humanity (authored by the Enemy of Humanity), I can respond with actions that will hopefully right the wrong(s), intercede so unnecessary suffering is eradicated, and engage in reasonable actions that promotes care and healing to the people involved in the atrocity. If not me, then who? If not now, then when? The good thing is there are organizations I could partner with in my effort to be an productive agent of change.”
So thanks again for looking at these 31 Flavors of Wisdom and hopefully, participating in the 31 Day Wisdom Challenge, and for reading this excerpt from Cultivating Love: Wisdom for Life. As time permits, please visit the other blogs written by Dr. Ken McGill: Daily Bread for Life and “3–2- 5–4–24” for additional information that could be helpful.
