divine law
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- A law believed to originate directly from a deity: "Divine law" refers to a system of rules or commandments that are understood to be given by God or a divine source, rather than created by human societies or governments. It is considered absolute, eternal, and morally binding for believers.
Usage
- "Divine law" is typically used in religious, theological, and philosophical contexts to discuss the ultimate source of moral and legal authority. It is often contrasted with human-made laws (civil or positive law) or natural law.
- It functions as a singular noun but can refer to a collective body of commandments or principles.
- Example:
Examples
- Noun:
- According to their faith, divine law supersedes all man-made legislation.
- The concept of divine law is central to understanding the religious texts.
- Scholars debated whether the rule was based on divine law or traditional custom.
Advanced Usage
- "To be in accordance with divine law": To act or exist in a way that follows the perceived commandments of God.
- The community sought to structure its governance in accordance with divine law.
- "A breach/violation of divine law": An act that breaks a commandment believed to be from God.
- In that culture, such an act was considered a grave violation of divine law.
Variants and Related Words
- Divine command (n): A specific injunction or order believed to be issued by God. Often used similarly but can refer to a single instruction rather than a comprehensive system.
- They followed what they believed was a divine command.
- Divine ordinance (n): A decree or authoritative order established by divine authority.
- The ritual was performed as a divine ordinance.
Synonyms
- God's law: A more direct synonym emphasizing the source.
- Holy law: Emphasizes the sacred and religious nature of the law.
- Sacred law: Similar to "holy law," highlighting its revered status within a religion.
Related Phrases
- Law of God: A common alternative phrasing with identical meaning.
- He dedicated his life to studying the law of God.
- Revealed law: Specifically refers to divine law that has been disclosed or made known to humanity through revelation (e.g., in scriptures).
- The prophets were messengers of revealed law.
Noun
- a law that is believed to come directly from God