legalism

English dictionary entry

Meanings

noun

The focusing on the text of written law to the exclusion of the intent of law, elevating strict adherence to law over justice, mercy, grace and common sense.
A belief that salvation is attained or maintained by adherence to the requirements of moral law; salvation by works rather than by faith alone.
A legal axiom, term or rule.
Alternative letter-case form of Legalism.

noun

A school of thought, originating in ancient China during the Warring States period and officially adopted during the Qin dynasty, advocating rule by law as key to ensuring social stability.

legalism legalisms

From legal + -ism. Piecewise doublet of loyalism.

casuistry

antilegalism nonlegalism antinomianism antinomism solifidianism

legalist legalistic legalistically nonlegalism non-legalism prolegalism pro-legalism aphorism law literalism Torah statism legalism

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