In this paper the author discusses the first indications of a relation between the idea of justice and the idea of equivalence, which can be found in Homer's works. Members of tribal aristocracy wanted to establish an adequate ratio between the merit they supposed they had for the community and the rights adequate to these merits. Sometimes, they established such proportions in a rough and violent manner, by dictating and enforcing rules of behaviour; as a result, this enabled later commentators to conclude that the principle "might makes right" was central to the Greek concept of justice and that Homer confirms his approval of this principle in both of his epics (Iliad and Odyssey). Dike in Homer shows its other key characteristic, correlativity, because it constantly refers to two sides in conflict, with frequent assistance from the agora. In the Iliad, justice is found within a complex negotiation between the parties involved, a process whose essence is expressed by speech. In other words, whether we find it in singular or plural form, justice is something which is clearly and distinctly verbally articulated. Finally, the procedure was transparently performed, since in cultures without written records public memory is the only competent authority in all phases of a conflict.