Definition

1. Noun:
   • A decree, an order, or a command issued by a religious authority, particularly within a structured religious hierarchy such as the Catholic Church. It is an official directive concerning doctrine, discipline, or practice.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Giám mục ban hành một giáo lệnh mới về nghi thức thờ phượng. (The bishop issued a new decree concerning worship rites.)
  • Các tu sĩ phải tuân theo giáo lệnh từ Tòa Thánh. (The clergy must obey the command from the Holy See.)

Advanced Usage

• The term is specific to religious, especially ecclesiastical, contexts. It is not used for secular laws or general instructions.
• It implies a formal, written, and authoritative pronouncement.

Variants and Related Words

• Sắc lệnh (n): A decree or edict, often used in both secular and religious contexts but can carry a slightly more formal or imperial tone.
• Chỉ thị (n): An instruction or directive, common in administrative and organizational contexts, less formal and specific than .
• Mệnh lệnh (n): A command or order, often with a sense of urgency and authority, used in military, organizational, or general contexts.

Synonyms

• Decree: An official order issued by a legal or religious authority.
• Edict: An official order or proclamation issued by a person in authority.
• Command: An authoritative order.
• Directive: An official or authoritative instruction.

Related Idioms

• Thi hành giáo lệnh: To execute/carry out a decree.
  • Hội đồng giáo xứ có trách nhiệm thi hành giáo lệnh. (The parish council is responsible for executing the decree.)