Legal Definitions - honeste vivere

HONESTE VIVERE

honeste vivere is a Latin term used in Roman law that means "to live honorably." It is one of the three general precepts in which Justinian expressed the requirements of the law.

Living honorably means being truthful, fair, and just in all aspects of life. For example, paying your bills on time, being honest in your relationships, and treating others with respect are all ways to live honorably.

In the context of Roman law, honeste vivere was one of the guiding principles that judges used to make decisions. If someone was accused of a crime, the judge would consider whether or not the accused had lived honorably before making a ruling.

For instance, if someone was accused of stealing, the judge would consider whether or not the accused had a history of living honorably. If the accused had a reputation for being dishonest, the judge would be more likely to find them guilty. On the other hand, if the accused had a reputation for being honest and fair, the judge would be more likely to find them innocent.

Overall, honeste vivere is an important principle that emphasizes the importance of living a virtuous life.