Sources of Canon Law ________________________________________

General Idea of the Lecture

This lecture explains the sources of canon law in the Coptic Orthodox Church, emphasizing that canon law is not merely rigid texts, but a living expression of the Church’s faith and spiritual and pastoral life, rooted in divine revelation and apostolic tradition.

First: The Holy Bible – The Primary Source

The Holy Bible is the first and fundamental source of all canon laws.
No church law may contradict the Bible; otherwise, it is considered null and void.
Scripture lays down general principles concerning marriage, divorce, sacraments, priesthood, and spiritual life.

Second: Church Rites

Church rites represent the practical life of the Church and are canon law in action.
What the Church practices in prayers, sacraments, and ordinations is a legal source, even if not written.
However, rites must be theologically and spiritually sound, not incorrect customs mistaken for tradition.

Third: Church History and the Lives of the Saints

The conduct of the saints and the teachings of the recognized Church Fathers are essential sources of canon law.
Some of the Fathers’ sayings and letters were regarded as laws because they proceeded from a life filled with the Holy Spirit.
Historical ecclesiastical precedents help clarify how canon law is applied across generations.

Fourth: Apostolic Tradition

Not all the Lord’s teachings were written; many were handed down orally by the Apostles to the Church.
This tradition was lived, practiced, transformed into rites, and eventually became canon law.
The Church sacraments are a clear example of teachings practiced before being formally documented.

Important Canonical Notes

• A distinction must be made between the spirit of the law and its literal wording.
• There is a difference between multiple marriages (after widowhood) and polygamy, which is forbidden.
• Some laws were temporary, enacted to combat heresies, and ceased once those heresies ended.
• There are general laws for all believers and special laws, such as monastic rules, not binding on everyone.

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