Why did legalism start?

Answer 1

First, this term can refer to two different meanings. In one, it refers to a philosophy made popular in ancient China, circa 400 BCE in the so-called Warring States period, and frequently used during the Han Dynasty. This philosophy believed there was a hierarchy of behavior, with the Emperor or King at the top; he was considered the one source of authority, and lesser people were not permitted to question his actions; it was also a culture based on law-- the laws that were set up to maintain order in the society were expected to be followed.

Another meaning for this word is more negative. It is found in certain interpretations of religion, where believers go by the letter of the law, as found in their scriptures, with no exceptions. A religion that is considered legalistic puts law above compassion: some would say the Puritans observed this type of belief, while others might say it is exemplified by the Taliban. This type of legalism goes back to ancient times-- there are people in both the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament) and the New Testament who can be said to behave in a legalistic way. In fact, nearly every religion seems to have some group of people who put their interpretation of the law ahead of anything else.