Romans 3:21 in the King James Version of the Bible reads, "But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets." This verse is significant in the book of Romans because it marks a turning point in the message that Paul is conveying to the Christians in Rome. In the preceding verses, Paul has been discussing the issue of sin and the consequences of living in rebellion against God. In Romans 3:21, he introduces the concept of righteousness and how it can be obtained.

The theme of righteousness is central to the message of the Gospel and is a key concept in the book of Romans. In this verse, Paul highlights the righteousness of God and how it is made known to humanity. He emphasizes the fact that this righteousness is not dependent on adherence to the law, as was previously thought, but is now revealed apart from the law. This is significant because it challenges the traditional understanding of righteousness and highlights the grace of God in providing a way for humanity to be declared righteous.

The context of this verse is important to understand its significance. In the preceding chapters of Romans, Paul has been laying out the reality of human sinfulness and the need for salvation. He has highlighted the failure of the law to make people righteous and the universal condemnation of humanity. In Romans 3:21, Paul shifts the focus from the problem of sin to the solution of righteousness. He begins to unpack the concept of justification by faith and how it is available to all who believe, regardless of their adherence to the law.

The symbolism in this verse is powerful and rich in meaning. The righteousness of God symbolizes His perfect and holy nature, which cannot tolerate sin. The fact that this righteousness is without the law symbolizes the freedom and grace that God offers to humanity. It highlights the fact that no one can be made righteous through their own efforts or through adherence to a set of rules. Instead, righteousness is manifested through the person of Jesus Christ and is available to all who believe in Him.

The phrase "being witnessed by the law and the prophets" is also significant in this verse. It underscores the continuity between the Old Testament and the message of the Gospel. The law and the prophets, which are foundational to the Jewish faith, point to the righteousness of God that is now made known through Jesus Christ. This symbolizes the fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecies and the establishment of a new covenant that is not based on the law, but on faith in Jesus.

Overall, Romans 3:21 is a pivotal verse in the book of Romans that marks a shift in Paul's message from the problem of sin to the solution of righteousness. It introduces the concept of righteousness apart from the law and highlights the grace of God in providing a way for humanity to be declared righteous. The themes of righteousness, faith, and the continuity between the Old Testament and the Gospel are central to the message of this verse and continue to be foundational to the Christian faith.