Retribution
Retribution , noun
[Latin retributio: compare French rétribution.]
1.
The act of retributing; repayment.
In good offices and due retributions, we may not be pinching and niggardly.
2.
That which is given in repayment or compensation; return suitable to the merits or deserts of, as an action; commonly, condign punishment for evil or wrong.
All who have their reward on earth,...
Naught seeking but the praise of men, here find
Fit retribution, empty as their deeds.
3.
Specifically, reward and punishment, as distributed at the general judgment.
It is a strong argument for a state of retribution hereafter, that in this world virtuous persons are very often unfortunate, and vicious persons prosperous.