# law, principle

## Definition:

A “law” is a legal rule that is usually written down and enforced by someone in authority. A “principle” is a guideline for decision-making and behavior, and is usually not written down or enforced. However, sometimes the term “law” is used to mean a “principle.”

* A “law” is similar to a “decree,” but the term “law” is generally used to refer to something written rather than spoken.
* Both “law” and “principle” can refer to a general rule or belief that guides a person’s behavior.
* This meaning of “law” is different from its meaning in the term “law of Moses,” where it refers to commands and instructions that God gave the Israelites.
* When a general law is being referred to, “law” could be translated as “principle” or “general rule.”

(See also: [law of Moses](../kt/lawofmoses.md), [decree](../other/decree.md), [command](../kt/command.md), [declare](../other/declare.md))

## Bible References:

* [Deuteronomy 4:2](rc://en/tn/help/deu/04/02)
* [Esther 3:8-9](rc://en/tn/help/est/03/08)
* [Exodus 12:12-14](rc://en/tn/help/exo/12/12)
* [Genesis 26:5](rc://en/tn/help/gen/26/05)
* [John 18:31](rc://en/tn/help/jhn/18/31)
* [Romans 7:1](rc://en/tn/help/rom/07/1)

## Word Data:

* Strong’s: H1285, H1881, H1882, H2706, H2708, H2710, H4687, H4941, H6310, H7560, H8451, G17850, G35480, G35510, G47470
