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H1779 · Hebrew · Old Testament
דִּין
Din
Noun, masculine
Judgment, plea, cause

Definition

The noun din (or the verb form meaning 'to judge') denotes judgment in a legal sense, a cause or case brought before a judge, and the act of vindicating or condemning. It is used in Aramaic sections of the Bible as well as in Hebrew poetic and wisdom texts.

Usage & Theological Significance

Din captures Israel's understanding of God as the supreme Judge whose verdicts are always righteous. The wisdom literature frequently calls on God to execute din for the poor and oppressed (Proverbs 31:8–9; Psalm 140:12). Daniel's vision climaxes in the divine throne room where the 'Ancient of Days' sits and 'the court sat in judgment' (dina yethiv, Daniel 7:10) — the ultimate tribunal before which all earthly kingdoms must answer. The eschatological dimension of din assures the oppressed that cosmic justice will prevail even when human courts fail.

Key Bible Verses

Daniel 7:10 A stream of fire issued and came out from before him; a thousand thousands served him, and ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him; the court sat in judgment, and the books were opened.
Proverbs 31:8 Open your mouth for the mute, for the rights of all who are destitute. Open your mouth, judge righteously, defend the rights of the poor and needy.
Psalm 76:8 From the heavens you uttered judgment; the earth feared and was still.
Isaiah 10:2 To turn aside the needy from justice and to rob the poor of my people of their right.
Deuteronomy 17:8 If any case arises requiring decision between one kind of homicide and another, one kind of legal right and another, or one kind of assault and another, any case within your towns that is too difficult for you, then you shall arise and go up to the place that the LORD your God will choose.

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