laws
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Definition
Noun 1. The Pentateuch: The first five books of the Hebrew Bible (Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy), considered as a single unit and foundational to Jewish religious law and tradition. 2. A body of rules: (As a plural of 'law') Rules established by authority, society, or custom that are binding and enforceable.
Usage
- The word Laws (capitalized) most specifically refers to the first five books of the Bible.
- The word laws (lowercase) is the standard plural form of the noun 'law'.
Examples
- Noun (Referring to the Pentateuch):
- The Torah, also known as the Laws, contains the foundational narratives and commandments.
- In Jewish tradition, the Laws of Moses are central to religious practice.
- Noun (Plural of 'law'):
- All citizens must obey the laws of the country.
- The new laws were passed by parliament last week.
Advanced Usage
- "the Law and the Prophets": A phrase used in the Bible to refer to the entire Hebrew Scriptures, with "the Law" meaning the Pentateuch.
- His teachings were seen as a fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets.
Variants and Related Words
- Law (n): The singular form. A rule or system of rules.
- Lawful (adj): Allowed or recognized by law.
- Lawless (adj): Without law or control.
Synonyms
- For the Pentateuch: The Torah, The Pentateuch, The Five Books of Moses.
- For rules/regulations: Rules, Regulations, Statutes, Ordinances, Legislation.
Related Phrases
- Lay down the law: To assert authority and give strict orders.
- The new manager immediately laid down the law about office hours.
- Take the law into one's own hands: To attempt to administer justice personally without legal authority.
- Vigilantes who take the law into their own hands often cause more harm.
Notes
When capitalized ("the Laws"), the term almost exclusively refers to the biblical books. In all other contexts, the lowercase plural "laws" is used.
Noun
- the first of three divisions of the Hebrew Scriptures comprising the first five books of the Hebrew Bible considered as a unit