Definition

1. 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

1. a law that is believed to come directly from God