Question

Is the very origin of the "natural law" religious or philosophical?

Definition (Wikipedia):

Natural law[1] (Latin: ius naturale, lex naturalis) is a system of law based on a close observation of human nature, and based on values intrinsic to human nature that can be deduced and applied independently of positive law (the express enacted laws of a state or society).

I can read that the natural law dates back to classical philosophy (Socrate, Plato, Aristotle, the Stoics).

But I can also read that it has origins in the Old Testament: "Because of its origins in the Old Testament, early Church Fathers, especially those in the West, saw natural law as part of the natural foundation of Christianity." (Wikipedia).

And also crossed upon sentences like: "Natural law, both in its first (religious) sense and in its subsequent secular extensions (…)".

Answer 1

The origin of the natural law is both religious and philosophical, tracing back to the Old Testament and classical philosophers.

Step-by-step explanation:

The very origin of the "natural law" can be traced back to both religious and philosophical sources. In terms of religious origin, the natural law is linked to the Old Testament and early Church Fathers who saw it as part of the natural foundation of Christianity. From a philosophical perspective, the natural law dates back to classical philosophers such as Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, and the Stoics, who observed human nature and deduced values intrinsic to it. These two origins have influenced the development and understanding of the natural law concept.