Definition

1. Noun:
   • The body of codified laws governing the affairs of a Christian church: Ecclesiastical law refers to the system of rules and regulations established by a religious authority to govern the organization, doctrine, and practices of a Christian church or denomination.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The bishop was well-versed in ecclesiastical law.
  • Matters of clergy discipline are handled according to ecclesiastical law.
  • The council convened to discuss reforms to the ecclesiastical law.

Advanced Usage

• "Canon law" as a specific type: While often used interchangeably, "canon law" is a common term for the ecclesiastical law of the Roman Catholic Church and some other Christian traditions.
  • The marriage was annulled under canon law, a branch of ecclesiastical law.

Variants and Related Words

• Canon law (n): The ecclesiastical law, especially of the Roman Catholic Church.
  • Canon law provides detailed regulations for sacraments.
• Ecclesiastical (adj): Relating to the Christian church or its clergy.
  • The building had a distinct ecclesiastical architecture.

Synonyms

• Canon law: The internal law of a church.
• Church law: A general term for the legal system of a church.

Related Phrases

• Court of ecclesiastical law: A tribunal that adjudicates matters under church law.
  • The dispute was taken before a court of ecclesiastical law.

Noun

1. the body of codified laws governing the affairs of a Christian church