Understanding the Historical Order of Natural Law Theories

The question asks us to arrange key stages in the development of Natural Law theories in chronological (ascending) order. Let's analyze each point:

Stage 1: Early Concepts (Related to Divine Union)

A. Union with Divine is end of law

This represents very early philosophical or theological ideas where the ultimate goal or source of law was seen as being connected to the divine or spiritual realm. In many ancient traditions, law was intrinsically linked to divine order and achieving a state of union with the divine was the highest aim, influencing the conception of law's purpose.

Stage 2: Medieval Period (Church Dominance)

B. Church is the law giver

During the Middle Ages, the Church held significant influence over legal and moral thought in Europe. Natural Law was often interpreted through the lens of divine revelation and ecclesiastical authority. The Church was seen as the primary interpreter and enforcer of God's will, making it a central 'law giver' in the context of natural law.

Stage 3: Rationalist Development

C. Development of idea of Rationalism

With the Renaissance and the Enlightenment, there was a significant shift towards human reason as a basis for understanding the world, including law. Thinkers began to emphasize natural law as discoverable through reason, independent of direct divine revelation. This period saw the secularization and rationalization of natural law concepts.

Stage 4: Modern Revival

D. Revival of Natural Law

After a period where legal positivism dominated, Natural Law theories experienced a resurgence, particularly in the 20th century. This revival was often spurred by reactions to legal systems that enabled or failed to prevent gross injustices (like during World War II), highlighting the need for a moral foundation in law beyond state-made rules.

Chronological Arrangement

Based on the historical progression of these ideas, the correct order is:

1. A: Early concepts linking law to the divine.
2. B: Medieval period where the Church played a key role.
3. C: Enlightenment era emphasis on rationalism.
4. D: Modern resurgence of natural law principles.

Therefore, the correct sequence reflecting the historical development of Natural Law theories is A, B, C, D.