Legal Definitions - quae solum Deum habent ultorem

quae solum Deum habent ultorem is a Latin phrase that translates to "acts that have only God as avenger." This concept refers to actions or omissions that are considered morally or ethically wrong according to a particular belief system, but which do not violate any human-made laws. As a result, these acts cannot be prosecuted or punished by human legal systems. Instead, any retribution or judgment for such actions is believed to be solely within the domain of a divine power or higher authority.

Here are some examples illustrating this concept:

• Example 1: A Habitual Liar in Personal Life

  Imagine an individual who consistently tells lies to their friends and family, causing emotional distress and eroding trust within their personal relationships. These lies are not made under oath, do not involve financial fraud, and do not constitute defamation. While their behavior is morally reprehensible and deeply damaging to those around them, it does not violate any specific criminal statute or civil law that would allow a court to intervene and punish them for being a dishonest person in their private interactions.

  How it illustrates the term: The act of habitual personal lying, while a moral failing, is not a crime punishable by human law. The legal system has no jurisdiction over such purely ethical transgressions, leaving any ultimate judgment or consequence to a higher power, as implied by "acts that have only God as avenger."

• Example 2: Malicious Thoughts Without Action

  Consider a person who harbors intense jealousy and resentment towards a colleague, frequently fantasizing about their rival's professional downfall and experiencing satisfaction from these dark thoughts. However, this individual never takes any concrete steps to sabotage their colleague's work, spread rumors, or commit any illegal act. Their malice remains entirely within their mind.

  How it illustrates the term: Human law generally punishes actions, not mere thoughts or intentions, no matter how malevolent, unless those thoughts lead to an overt act that constitutes a crime (like conspiracy or attempt). The law cannot punish someone for simply thinking ill of another, thus falling into the category of an act for which only a divine entity might render judgment.

• Example 3: Breach of a Personal Spiritual Vow

  An individual makes a solemn, private vow to themselves and their spiritual deity to dedicate a significant portion of their time to charitable work each year. Over time, they become increasingly self-absorbed and neglect this vow, choosing instead to pursue personal leisure and material gain. This vow was not part of a legally binding contract, nor was it made publicly in a way that would incur legal obligations.

  How it illustrates the term: The failure to uphold a personal spiritual vow, while potentially considered a sin or a moral failing within a religious framework, does not constitute a breach of contract or any other legally enforceable obligation under human law. The legal system has no mechanism to compel adherence to such a private commitment or to punish its neglect, leaving any accountability to the spiritual realm.