rättfärdig

Rättfärdig is an adjective in Swedish used to describe someone or something as morally right, virtuous, or justified. In everyday language it can refer to actions, decisions, or character that align with accepted ethical standards, for example describing a person as a "rättfärdig" individual or a "rättfärdig handling." In religious contexts, the term often carries the sense of being justified before God, or the state of having one's sins forgiven and being deemed righteous in a theological sense. The related noun "rättfärdighet" denotes righteousness or the quality of being morally right, while the verb form "rättfärdiga" can mean to justify or to render someone righteous.

Etymology and usage notes: rättfärdig is a compound of rätt (right, just) and färdig (ready, prepared), historically conveying the notion of being set right or established as just. The term is common in Swedish Bible translations and in theological and ethical discussions, where it often contrasts with concepts like justice (rättvisa) and fairness. In secular use, it emphasizes moral character more than legal propriety.

Nuances and scope: The concept highlights moral virtue rather than procedural correctness. It is not interchangeable with all senses of "just" in legal terms; "rättfärdig" tends to carry a normative, value-laden dimension. In modern Swedish, the word appears more frequently in religious or normative ethical discourse, though it remains understood in everyday conversation.

See also: righteousness, justification, righteous, just.