canonists

Definition

People who are experts in religious law, specifically those who interpret or apply ecclesiastical legal codes.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek 'kanōn', meaning a measuring rod or rule, which evolved into 'canon' in ecclesiastical Latin to refer to church law. By the 16th century, 'canonist' emerged in English to specifically describe a person specializing in the study or practice of these religious laws.

In the news

The article uses the term to describe the religious authorities who critiqued Jesus for his interpretation of Sabbath laws. It highlights the clash between those focused on rigid legalistic enforcement and Jesus's more merciful approach.

Archbishop Fisher homily: Jesus came to fulfill the law

The Catholic Weekly

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