Significance of Natural Law
Natural Law, according to various philosophies and schools of thought, encompasses principles governing cause and effect, urban development, moral frameworks, ethical behavior, and universal truths. Tibetan Buddhism highlights the cause-effect relationship, while Vastushastra and Shaktism emphasize universal organizing principles. Purana and Kavya address the moral implications of Natural Law, particularly in governance and conflict. Yoga focuses on transformation principles coupled with supernormal powers, and Theravada incorporates concepts like kamma. Collectively, these interpretations reflect a profound understanding of Natural Law's integral role in both moral and physical realms.
Synonyms: Universal law, Moral law, Ethical law, Divine law, Fundamental law, Law of nature., Natural rights, Unwritten law
In Dutch: Natuurwet; In Finnish: Luonnonlaki; In Spanish: Ley natural
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Natural Law'
Natural Law in Buddhism encompasses universal principles like kamma that dictate the relationship between actions and their consequences, guiding both the physical and moral realms, and establishes fundamental truths governing ethical behavior and the cause-and-effect dynamic.
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) The principle that one effect is produced from one cause, highlighting the relationship between cause and effect in a latent form.[1]
From: Dhammapada (Illustrated)
(1) Universal principles, including kamma, that govern the physical and moral worlds; they explain various phenomena including actions and consequences.[2]
From: Maha Prajnaparamita Sastra
(1) The fundamental truths that govern ethical and moral behavior accepted in conventional belief systems.[3]
Hindu concept of 'Natural Law'
Natural Law in Hinduism encompasses principles governing nature, moral ethics, and universal laws that influence human behavior, societal organization, and the attainment of spiritual powers, reflecting a complex interplay between natural order and human conduct.
From: Ramayana of Valmiki
(1) Natural law refers to the moral framework that the king appeals to in his argument for why he should possess Shabala, considering her value as a treasure.[4] (2) The inherent principle that dictates the cycle of death and destruction, which Mrityu referred to regarding his power.[5]
From: Yoga-sutras (Ancient and Modern Interpretations)
(1) The principles governing the universe that, upon mastery, allow individuals to attain siddhis or supernormal powers.[6] (2) The principles that govern the behavior and transformations in the natural world.[7]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) Moral and ethical principles that govern human behavior, often conflicting with the laws of nations concerning warfare.[8]
From: Vastu-shastra (Introduction to Indian architecture)
(1) Universal principles that govern the development and organization of towns across different civilizations.[9]
From: Shakti and Shakta
(1) Universal principles that govern the world, which the Hindus believe should not be disregarded by assuming one single path for all.[10]
The concept of Natural Law in local and regional sources
Natural Law represents a set of immutable principles governing both moral and physical realms, illustrating the connection between actions and reactions. It suggests an authority over human affairs independent of divine influence, while acknowledging inherent inequalities.
From: Triveni Journal
(1) The underlying principles of existence that align with the joyful use of language and expression.[11] (2) Innumerable laws that govern the universe and are responsible for the existence or extinction of life.[12] (3) The immutable principles that govern the functioning of both living and non-living entities in the universe without external supervision.[13] (4) A fundamental principle that governs not only physical phenomena but also moral and spiritual aspects, suggesting that actions have corresponding reactions.[14] (5) A belief that there is a connection between causes and effects in the moral realm, analogous to physical laws.[15]