Types of divine law

Question 1

Divine Law (from God)

Answer 1

• Divine Law is God’s revealed law — made known to us through Scripture, especially through the life and teachings of Jesus.
• It shows us how to live in relationship with God and with one another.

Question 2

Natural Law (understood by human reason)

Answer 2

Definition:
* Natural Law is the idea that there’s a universal moral code built into every human being — written “on our hearts,” not just in books.
* It’s the deep, natural sense of right and wrong that all people can recognize, even without being taught directly.

Example: Knowing it’s wrong to lie or steal, even without religion.

Question 3

Church Law (Canon Law)

Answer 3

• Church Law (also called Canon Law) is the official set of rules the Catholic Church uses to apply Divine Law to real-life, everyday situations in the life of the Church.
• It helps guide Catholics in living out their faith in practical ways.

Question 4

Civil Law (human laws of the government)

Answer 4

• Civil Law (also called Human Law) is the set of rules created by governments (local, national, or international) to help organize and manage society.
• These laws help protect people’s rights, keep order, and guide daily life — like traffic laws, tax rules, school laws, etc.