Fas

/fæs/ noun

Definition

In Roman law and religion, divine law or what is sanctioned by the gods, as opposed to human law. Also an abbreviation for various organizations or technical terms.

Etymology

From Latin 'fas' meaning 'divine law, what is right according to the gods'. Related to 'fari' (to speak), suggesting divinely spoken law. Contrasted with 'jus' (human law) in Roman legal tradition.

Kelly Says

The Roman concept of 'fas' reveals a fascinating distinction between human-made laws and divine commandments - what humans decree versus what the gods ordain. This ancient legal concept helps explain why we still struggle with questions of natural law versus positive law in modern jurisprudence.

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