Definition and Overview:
Neglect of justice refers to the failure to uphold fairness, righteousness, and equity, particularly in legal and social contexts. In the biblical narrative, justice is a central theme, reflecting God's character and His expectations for human conduct. The neglect of justice is often condemned by the prophets and is seen as a deviation from God's commandments.

Biblical Context:
Justice in the Bible is rooted in the character of God, who is described as just and righteous. The Hebrew word for justice, "mishpat," encompasses legal decisions, fairness, and the protection of the vulnerable. The neglect of justice is frequently addressed in the Old Testament, where it is associated with societal corruption and moral decay.

Key Biblical Passages:

1. Isaiah 1:17 : "Learn to do right; seek justice and correct the oppressor. Defend the fatherless and plead the case of the widow." This verse highlights the active pursuit of justice as a divine mandate, emphasizing the protection of the marginalized.

2. Micah 6:8 : "He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?" Here, justice is presented as a fundamental requirement of God's people, alongside mercy and humility.

3. Amos 5:24 : "But let justice roll on like a river, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream." The prophet Amos calls for an unceasing flow of justice and righteousness, condemning superficial religious practices that neglect these core values.

4. Zechariah 7:9-10 : "Thus says the LORD of Hosts: 'Administer true justice. Show loving devotion and compassion to one another. Do not oppress the widow or the fatherless, the foreigner or the poor. Do not plot evil in your hearts against one another.'" This passage underscores the importance of genuine justice and compassion in community life.

Consequences of Neglecting Justice:
The Bible warns of severe consequences for those who neglect justice. Injustice leads to societal breakdown, divine judgment, and the loss of God's favor. The prophets often link the neglect of justice with idolatry and moral corruption, calling for repentance and reform.

1. Isaiah 59:14-15 : "Justice is turned back, and righteousness stands at a distance; for truth has stumbled in the public square, and honesty cannot enter. Truth is missing, and whoever turns from evil becomes prey." This passage describes the chaos and moral confusion that result from the absence of justice.

2. Jeremiah 22:3-5 : "This is what the LORD says: 'Administer justice and righteousness. Rescue the victim of robbery from the hand of his oppressor. Do not exploit or brutalize the foreigner, the fatherless, or the widow. Do not shed innocent blood in this place. For if you will indeed carry out these commands, then kings who sit on David’s throne will enter through the gates of this palace riding on chariots and horses, accompanied by their officials and their people. But if you do not obey these words, then I swear by Myself, declares the LORD, that this palace will become a ruin.'" The passage highlights the conditional nature of God's blessings based on the practice of justice.

New Testament Perspective:
In the New Testament, Jesus and the apostles continue to emphasize justice, often critiquing religious leaders for their hypocrisy and neglect of justice.

1. Matthew 23:23 : "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You pay tithes of mint, dill, and cumin, but you have disregarded the weightier matters of the law: justice, mercy, and faithfulness. You should have practiced the latter, without neglecting the former." Jesus rebukes the religious leaders for their focus on minor rituals while neglecting the essential principles of justice and mercy.

2. James 1:27 : "Pure and undefiled religion before our God and Father is this: to care for orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world." The apostle James reiterates the importance of caring for the vulnerable as a true expression of faith.

Theological Implications:
Neglect of justice is not merely a social issue but a theological one, reflecting a failure to embody God's character and commands. The biblical call to justice is a call to align with God's will, demonstrating His love and righteousness in the world.