Definition and Characteristics:
Righteous people, according to the Bible, are those who live in accordance with God's laws and commandments, demonstrating moral integrity and uprightness. The Hebrew word for righteousness, "tsedeq," and the Greek word "dikaios," both convey the idea of being just, virtuous, and in right standing with God. Righteousness is not merely an external adherence to rules but involves a heart aligned with God's will.

Old Testament Examples:
1. Noah · Noah is described as a righteous man, "blameless among his contemporaries" (Genesis 6:9). He walked with God and was chosen to build the ark, saving his family and the animal kingdom from the flood due to his faithfulness and obedience.

2. Abraham · Known as the father of faith, Abraham's belief in God was "credited to him as righteousness" (Genesis 15:6). His willingness to obey God, even to the point of sacrificing his son Isaac, exemplifies his righteousness.

3. Job · Job is portrayed as a man of integrity who "feared God and shunned evil" (Job 1:1). Despite severe trials and suffering, Job maintained his righteousness, trusting in God's justice and sovereignty.

4. David · Although David sinned, he is often referred to as a man after God's own heart (1 Samuel 13:14). His psalms reflect a deep repentance and desire for righteousness, as seen in Psalm 51.

New Testament Examples:
1. Joseph, Husband of Mary · Joseph is described as a righteous man (Matthew 1:19). His decision to quietly divorce Mary upon learning of her pregnancy, and later his obedience to the angel's message, demonstrate his just character.

2. John the Baptist · John is noted for his righteous life and his role in preparing the way for Jesus (Mark 6:20). His call to repentance and baptism for the forgiveness of sins was a hallmark of his ministry.

3. Simeon · Simeon, who awaited the consolation of Israel, is described as "righteous and devout" (Luke 2:25). His recognition of Jesus as the Messiah highlights his spiritual insight and righteousness.

4. Cornelius · A centurion described as "a righteous and God-fearing man" (Acts 10:22), Cornelius's prayers and almsgiving were acknowledged by God, leading to the spread of the Gospel to the Gentiles.

Teachings on Righteousness:
1. The Law and Prophets · The Old Testament emphasizes that righteousness involves justice, mercy, and humility before God (Micah 6:8). The Law provided a framework for righteous living, but the prophets often called Israel back to a heartfelt obedience.

2. Jesus' Teachings · Jesus taught that righteousness must exceed that of the Pharisees and be genuine, stemming from the heart (Matthew 5:20). The Beatitudes highlight the blessedness of those who hunger and thirst for righteousness (Matthew 5:6).

3. Pauline Epistles · Paul emphasizes that righteousness comes through faith in Jesus Christ, not by works of the law (Romans 3:22). Believers are justified by faith and called to live out their righteousness through the power of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23).

4. James' Epistle · James underscores that faith without works is dead, indicating that true righteousness is demonstrated through actions (James 2:26). The righteous person is characterized by wisdom, humility, and a life of prayer (James 3:13, 5:16).

Eschatological Perspective:
The Bible promises that the righteous will inherit eternal life and dwell in the presence of God. In the final judgment, the righteous will be separated from the wicked, receiving their reward in the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 25:34). The new heavens and new earth will be a dwelling place of righteousness (2 Peter 3:13), where God's people will live in perfect harmony with Him.