What is "chthonic law"

n. (context legal English) A system of law centered on the sacred character of the cosmos.

Chthonic law is defined as a system of law centered on the sacred character of the cosmos. According to Professor H. Patrick Glenn, the Chthonic legal tradition emerged through experience, orality and memory. According to him it is the oldest of all traditions and can be understood as the law of a culture or tribe. Glenn refers to the laws of indigenous people as he believes these people are in close harmony to earth. At a broader level it is used with reference to any law which is a part of the custom or tradition of the people and in this regard is distinguishable from the traditional definition of law. Some authors believe that modern law has evolved from a scientific comparison of different Chthonic legal traditions. It is studied as a part of pluralism of law.