Which term best describes a canon rule or norm?

• A. Sanction
• B. Discipline
• C. Tribunal
• D. Canon

Answer: (B)

In canon law, the word that best describes a rule or norm governing conduct as part of the church’s ordered system is discipline. Discipline refers to the organized body of rules and standards that guide behavior, practice, and governance within the Church, along with how those rules are applied. A canon is the rule itself, and sanctions are the penalties for breaking rules, while a tribunal is the body that enforces or adjudicates disputes under those rules. So when you’re talking about the set of norms that regulate how things should be done, “discipline” captures that broad, governing aspect far more than the other terms.