Unrighteous

Unrighteous is an adjective that describes a lack of righteousness, moral uprightness, or justice. It is used to characterize persons, actions, or systems that contravene ethical norms or divine standards. The term often carries a theological sense, distinguishing actions that are considered sinful or unjust in religious contexts from those that are merely unlawful or unfair by secular criteria.

Etymology: The word is formed from the prefix un- meaning not, combined with righteous. In English, unrighteous appears in Middle English and has roots in Old English, and has been used in religious writings to translate terms meaning without virtue or without alignment with divine law.

Usage and scope: In religious discourse, unrighteousness denotes conduct that falls short of moral law or covenantal standards. It is frequently paired with righteousness to emphasize contrast between virtuous and immoral behavior. In secular discourse, the term can describe actions perceived as morally wrong or unethical, though it is less common and sometimes viewed as judgmental or archaic.

Cultural and literary usage: The term appears in religious literature, sermons, and some moral philosophy writings, where it is used to critique social practices deemed unjust or hypocritical. In modern secular writing, alternatives such as immoral, unethical, or unjust are more common, but unrighteous may appear in historical or rhetorical contexts.

See also: Righteousness; Sin; Unethical behavior; Injustice; Moral philosophy.