I knew there was a difference but couldn't think of how to explain it so I asked chatgpt:
The terms "legal" and "lawful" are often used interchangeably, but they do have subtle differences in meaning. Here's a breakdown of each term:
Legal: Something is considered legal if it is permitted by law or not forbidden by law. It refers to the status of something under the law, whether it's an action, a document, or a process. For example, when someone says that a contract is legal, they mean that the contract is valid and binding under the law. It doesn't necessarily mean that all the terms of the contract are fair or moral, just that they are permissible under the law.
Lawful: When something is lawful, it means that it is not only permitted by law but also right and just according to the law. It implies a moral component, suggesting that the thing in question is not just allowed by law but also aligns with the spirit of the law and principles of justice. For example, a lawful order from a police officer is one that is not just legal but also fair, justified, and in accordance with the individual's rights.
In summary, "legal" refers to the letter of the law, while "lawful" refers to both the letter and the spirit of the law, including principles of fairness and justice.
I am now hearing the the term "lawful", where I previously heard "legal".
I knew there was a difference but couldn't think of how to explain it so I asked chatgpt:
The terms "legal" and "lawful" are often used interchangeably, but they do have subtle differences in meaning. Here's a breakdown of each term:
Legal: Something is considered legal if it is permitted by law or not forbidden by law. It refers to the status of something under the law, whether it's an action, a document, or a process. For example, when someone says that a contract is legal, they mean that the contract is valid and binding under the law. It doesn't necessarily mean that all the terms of the contract are fair or moral, just that they are permissible under the law.
Lawful: When something is lawful, it means that it is not only permitted by law but also right and just according to the law. It implies a moral component, suggesting that the thing in question is not just allowed by law but also aligns with the spirit of the law and principles of justice. For example, a lawful order from a police officer is one that is not just legal but also fair, justified, and in accordance with the individual's rights.
In summary, "legal" refers to the letter of the law, while "lawful" refers to both the letter and the spirit of the law, including principles of fairness and justice.
What was done to Jesus was legal but not lawful I assume.