nomos

What it means

Law, in Paul usually the Law of Moses (the Torah), though sometimes a principle ("the law of faith," 3:27; "the law of sin," 7:23). Romans uses the word about seventy-five times. Paul says the law shows sin, cannot make anyone righteous, and yet is "holy and righteous and good" (7:12). What he means in each use is a matter of discussion.

Range of meaning

• Law of MosesThe Torah.
• PrincipleA governing rule.
• ScriptureThe whole Old Testament.

In Romans

• Chapter 2

  "The doers of the law will be justified" (2:12-27).

• Chapter 7

  "The law is holy," "another law in my members" (7:1-25).