Maxim 10.2.2
The meaning of the words is the spirit of the law.
Sensus verborum est anima legis.
Source: 5 Co. 2; Weisman, 104s
Difficulty 1/5 — Foundational
Explanation
The spirit of a law is found in its words rightly understood — not in some abstract purpose divorced from the text.
Where this applies
- The spirit of the law is found in understanding what its words actually mean.
- They're claiming the spirit of the law is different from what the words say.
- The meaning of the words IS the spirit — you can't separate them.
Topics
Legal domains
See also
Cite this maxim
NeCede Max. 10.2.2 — The meaning of the words is the spirit of the law. — 5 Co. 2; Weisman, 104s (Sensus verborum est anima legis.)
Found an error? Suggest a correction →