In the Bible, nomos (νόμος) is a significant Greek term primarily found in the New Testament, encompassing a broad range of meanings related to established principles, customs, and laws. It can refer to anything established, anything received by usage, a custom, a law, or a command, essentially covering any law whatsoever.
Understanding the Nuances of Nomos
While "law" is the most common translation of nomos, its usage in biblical texts, particularly in the writings of Paul, is far more complex and nuanced than a simple legal code. It refers not only to specific ordinances but also to underlying principles and established ways of life.
Here's a breakdown of its primary applications:
1. The Mosaic Law (Torah)
The most frequent and prominent use of nomos in the Bible, especially in the New Testament, is to refer to the Law given by God through Moses on Mount Sinai. This includes:
- The Ten Commandments: The foundational moral and ethical commands for the Israelites.
- Ceremonial Laws: Regulations concerning sacrifices, temple worship, purity, and festivals.
- Civil Laws: Statutes governing societal life, justice, property, and interpersonal relationships within Israel.
Examples:
- Romans 2:17 – "But if you call yourself a Jew and rely on the law (nomos) and boast in God..."
- Galatians 3:24 – "So then, the law (nomos) was our guardian until Christ came..."
2. A General Principle or Rule
Nomos can also denote a general principle, rule, or custom that governs behavior or reality, not necessarily divine in origin.
Examples:
- Romans 7:21 – "So I find it to be a law (nomos) that when I want to do right, evil lies close at hand." (Here, it refers to a principle of human experience).
- Romans 8:2 – "For the law (nomos) of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death." (Contrasting two opposing principles or forces).
3. Specific Commandments or Ordinances
Sometimes, nomos refers to a specific command or an individual ordinance rather than the entire body of law.
Example:
- Galatians 6:2 – "Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law (nomos) of Christ." (Referring to a specific ethical command or principle taught by Christ).
4. The Old Testament Scriptures
In some contexts, nomos can refer to the entire collection of Old Testament scriptures, or at least the Pentateuch (the first five books), where the Mosaic Law is recorded.
Example:
- John 10:34 – "Is it not written in your Law (nomos), ‘I said, you are gods’?" (Quoting from Psalm 82:6, indicating "Law" here means the Scriptures).
Theological Significance
The concept of nomos is central to understanding the New Testament's teachings on salvation, grace, and Christian living, especially in Paul's epistles (Romans, Galatians).
Key Theological Discussions Involving Nomos:
- Law vs. Grace: Paul often contrasts nomos with grace (charis), emphasizing that salvation comes through faith in Christ, not by adherence to the Law (Romans 3:28).
- The Purpose of the Law: The Law reveals sin (Romans 3:20), acts as a guide (Galatians 3:24), and prepares the way for Christ.
- The "Law of Christ": While freeing believers from the Mosaic Law as a means of salvation, Christianity introduces the "law of Christ," which is fundamentally driven by love and embodies the spirit of God's commands (Galatians 6:2).
Summary of Nomos Applications
Application of Nomos | Description | Key Characteristics |
---|---|---|
Mosaic Law (Torah) | The divine laws given to Israel through Moses. | Comprehensive legal and ethical code for Israel. |
General Principle/Rule | An established truth, custom, or operating principle. | Applies beyond specific religious codes, to human nature or reality. |
Specific Commandment | An individual instruction or ethical directive. | A singular part of a larger body of rules. |
Old Testament Scriptures | Refers to the written collection of the first five books or the entire Old Testament. | The sacred texts containing God's revelations and laws. |
Understanding nomos is crucial for comprehending the New Testament's theological arguments about faith, works, and the nature of God's relationship with humanity. It underscores that God's will is conveyed through established practices, received customs, and explicit commands, ultimately culminating in the "law of Christ"—a life lived in love and obedience by the Spirit.