Religious law

Religious Law

Religious law (pronunciation: /rɪˈlɪdʒəs lɔː/) refers to the legal systems that are based on religious texts or traditions. The etymology of the term comes from the Latin word religio meaning "reverence for God or the gods" and lex meaning "law".

Religious law is distinct from Secular law, which is a system of law that is based on non-religious beliefs or values. It is also different from Civil law, which is a legal system originating in mainland Europe and adopted in much of the world.

Types of Religious Law

There are several types of religious law, including:

Sharia: This is the religious law forming part of the Islamic tradition. It is derived from the religious precepts of Islam, particularly the Quran and the Hadith.

Halakha: This is the collective body of Jewish religious laws derived from the Written and Oral Torah.

Canon law: This is a set of ordinances and regulations made by ecclesiastical authority (Church leadership) for the government of a Christian organization or church and its members.

Hindu law: This is a specific religious law ascribed to Hindus, Buddhists, Jains and Sikhs in India.

Buddhist law: This is the practical application of the teachings of Buddha in legal matters.

Related Terms

Legal pluralism: This is a state of law where two or more legal systems coexist in the same social field.

Theocracy: This is a form of government in which a deity of some type is recognized as the supreme ruling authority, giving divine guidance to human intermediaries that manage the day to day affairs of the government.

Blasphemy law: This is a law limiting the freedom of speech and expression relating to blasphemy, or irreverence toward holy personages, religious artifacts, customs, and beliefs.