Quote by Joseph Addison, Guardian, No. 99
There is no virtue so truly great and godlike as Justice. Most of the other virtues are the virtues of created Beings, or accommodated to our nature as we are men. Justice is that which is practised by God himself, and to be practised in its perfection by none but him. Omniscience and Omnipotence are requisite for the full exertion of it. The one, to discover every degree of uprightness or iniquity in thoughts, words and actions. The other, to measure out and impart suitable rewards and punishments.As to be perfectly just is an attribute in the divine nature, to be so to the utmost of our abilities is the glory of a man. Such an one who has the publick administration in his hands, acts like the representative of his Maker, in recompencing the virtuous, and punishing the offender.
Summary
This quote emphasizes the significance and divine nature of justice. It asserts that justice is a virtue that goes beyond the capabilities of ordinary beings and is only perfectly embodied by God. While other virtues may be suited to human nature, justice is enacted by God with omniscience and omnipotence. The quote suggests that while humans cannot achieve perfect justice, it is still their duty to strive for it to the best of their abilities. It further states that those individuals who hold positions of authority have a responsibility to act justly, as they act as representatives of God in rewarding the virtuous and punishing wrongdoers.