That consideration is strongest which determines in favor of religion.

Explanation

(English-origin maxim.) When competing legal considerations are weighed, the one that favors religion carries the greatest weight — the law preferentially protects the sacred over the secular.

Where this applies

• A court weighs whether to allow a highway to be built through a historic cemetery — the consideration favoring the sanctity of the burial ground carries extra weight.
• A zoning board considers competing proposals for a parcel of land: a shopping center versus a new church — the consideration that favors religion is given priority.
• A judge must decide whether a hospital can override a patient's religiously motivated refusal of a blood transfusion — the weight of religious conscience tips the balance.