Noun
spirit of the law
The interpretation of the law towards the end of providing justice, even if this interpretation does not fall within the law as written.
I have composed this work neither for the common people, nor for beginners, nor for those who occupy themselves only with the Law as it is handed down without concerning themselves with its principles. The design of this work is rather to promote the true understanding of the real spirit of the Law. Maimonides
Chieftains must understand that the spirit of the law is greater than its letter. Attila the Hun