Natural Law

416. In what does the natural moral law consist? 1954-1960 1978-1979 The natural law which is inscribed by the Creator on the heart of every person consists in a participation in the wisdom and the goodness of God. It expresses that original moral sense which enables one to discern by reason the good and the bad. It is universal and immutable and determines the basis of the duties and fundamental rights of the person as well as those of the human community and civil law. 417. Is such a law perceived by everyone? 1960 Because of sin the natural law is not always perceived nor is it recognized by everyone with equal clarity and immediacy. For this reason God “wrote on the tables of the Law what men did not read in their hearts.” (Saint Augustine) 418. What is the relationship between the natural law and the Old Law? 1961-1962 1980 The Old Law is the first stage of revealed Law. It expresses many truths naturally accessible to reason and which are thus affirmed and authenticated in the covenant of salvation. Its moral prescriptions, which are summed up in the Ten Commandments of the Decalogue, lay the foundations of the human vocation, prohibit what is contrary to the love of God and neighbor, and prescribe what is essential to it.