divine law
Quick Summary
Divine law refers to a system of moral codes believed to originate from a divine power. These laws are often presented as commandments or teachings that guide human conduct and justice. In many cultures, myths explain the origin of morality, attributing it to divine sources to lend authority to moral codes.1
Examples include the Code of Hammurabi, which was presented as a gift from the sun god Shamash, and the Ten Commandments given to Moses by God. In Judaism, the Torah (Teaching) encompasses written and oral laws considered to embody divine will. The Noahide Laws are a set of seven biblical laws given to Adam and Noah, considered binding on all humanity.123
The concept of divine law is closely linked to natural law, with some thinkers, like Gratian, equating natural law with divine law. However, the idea that morality is solely dependent on divine approval has been questioned, notably by Plato, who argued that moral standards must exist independently of divine will.41
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